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[Copyright 1886 by W. P. Campbell.] 



CORENE. 



A Drama in Four Ads : — By W. P. Camphell, 
Westmoreland, Kansas. 



Cast of Characters: 

COl.ONEL LAVIER, PHILIP SAMSOX, 

ELDEN WILD, BRO. BONARD, 

SENIOR GRAY, CORENE LAVIER, 

WILL GRAY, LORETTO McFA, 

GANZ SCIIOENHEIT, MRS. VIDETTE. 



PERSONNEL. 

Colonel Lavier. Well-preserved roan of 55, cultivated 
and refined. In first and last acts iron-grey English side- 
viMiiskers, long, reversible sack coat of light color, light- 
weight material; mild and indulgent manner and speech. 
Second act, long library gown of figured material ; full, 
pointed whiskers; severe and rigid tone and manner. In 
third act, loose, hanging sack coat; otherwise, same as sec- 
ond act. 

Senior Gray. Long, lank, loutish man of 45; gangling 
gait; hair unkempt; illiterate air of independence; slouch 
hat,long frock coat, buttoned in middle in wrong hole! 
sleeves a trifle too short. 

Elden Wild, a well-bred young man of 22, suave and 
affable; full dress, modern. 

Will Gray. Awkward lad of 18; rather illiterate, with 
an air of undue self-esteem; homespun clothes, clean but 
not fashionable. 



\: 




Philip Samson. Miserly looking man of 40 j rough, an- 
couth, and duking look; slightly stooped, with swinging 
gait; inclined to look about without turning body; however, 
this should not be overdrawn; dark, coarse, crop hair: high 
cheek bones and peaked head ; coarse, short beard aown 
side of face and under throat ; face smooth back to ears; 
cheeks red and greasy; butternut suit, pants long and 
slouching over his shoes; dwells on the "go" in gold, and 
emphasizes the "Co" in Corene; slight, hesitating grunt at 
end of sentence; imagines his go-Id makes bim monarch of 
every wish. 

BuoTHER BoNARD. 40; half monk; ministerial dignity. 

Ganz ScHOENiiEiT. German character; 30; corpulent- 
In first act, blue swallow-tail; blue cap, with wide crown 
and front rim ; pants in boots. In second and third acts, 
same cap; red vest; green wamus or pea jicket: bagging 
pants of serpentine stripes; long slippers or wooden shoes; 
says the words "wme.'" and "Tio.'" long and with haughty 
l^orce, looking back over shoulder. 

CoREiSiE Lavier. 18; fair face; flowing blonde hair; aris- 
tocratic and intelligent; richly dressed in summer fabric of 
loose and nonchalant pattern. In first act, languid, dreamy, 
yet pettish, fault-finding and contentious. In second act. 
petite costume, spirited and good natured; emotional in 
closing scene. In third act, subdued, though betraying par- 
oxysms of resentment: nunsuiting; crape veil. In last act, 
same as first, without the bad humor. 

liORETTO. Fresh, rustic, 16; pretty, cute and cunning, on 
the don't-care style; neat girl-dress of calico, white apron» 
jaunty hat; she is trim and pretty. 

Mrs. ViDETTE. Maidish, 45; figured costume of super- 
cilious taste; affectingly serious; fiaring scoop bonnet; spec- 
tacles. In the word "powerful" dwells on and emphasizes 
the "pow", looking over spectacles and with slight move- 
ment of head in assurance. 

Time— Present. Plot— Local. 



CORENE. 



ACT I. 

Scene. Roo7n in Col. Lavier's mansion. Elegantly fur- 
nished. Colter table, r. c. loith bouquet. Window up c. Otto- 
man I. Chairs behind table. Door up c. After cm'tain 
rises, Elden enters, hat in hand. Saunters t. c. 

Elden. It looks as if I had the room all to myself — 
Monarch of tlie Axilla. And how awkward I feel in the 
possession. Wliat a contrast between this great hollow 
square with its vain appointments, and the cosy room of 
them all where Loretto usliered me. To me there is yet a 
peculiar charm about a common fire-side, where off-hand 
content is stranger to stiff formalities. If I should strike 
Loretto's door and find the room vacant, I would not feel ill 
at ease. How different here! lam at a loss whether to 
wipe my feet on the .n'ochet cat at the door, or take off my 
shoes : whether to hang my hat on the sculptured Adonis at 
the gate, or fold it under my arm and quietly wait requests. 
{Hat under arm.) For months we were classmates; trod 
the same st.nr and brake bread at one common board; and 
yet I am better acquainted with Loretto. whom I have seen 
bv.t three or four times. If the old gentleman is austere 
and reserved as Corene, I fear a lack for appropriate man- 
ners when 1 meet him. '.looks off r.) Ah I (puts hat on) here 
comes relief for my abashment. The young gentleman to 
whom Loretto gave me a knock-down— as she calls it 
{comes down). But what does he here? I remember he 
speaks of Corene with supreme liberty. Nonsense!— she is 
too refined for so coarse a clown as he, notwithstanding his 
dad's boasted riches. 

{Enter Will Gray r.) 
Well, well, my young friend, I am relieved by your appear- 
ance. Tliese lonesome walls almost frighten me with their 
echoes. By the way, it would seem you and I struck a simi- 
lar notion about the same time; hence we meet on this com- 
mon level. 



Will. It looks sort o' that way. People will meet on a 
level onct in a while, ^ut they aint on a level all the time. 
Some of 'em aint even square. 

Eld. Well spoken, mv younp; friend— well spoken. I 
have learned that in a school wherein you learn is re- 
membered—experience. 

Will. You say things in your way and I say 'em in 
mine. People ain't born equal, either. You was born with 
a smart tongue aiul me willi a long one. But I wouldn't 
swap tongues and my dad's cash. (Aside.) I guess I 
wouldn't; he's so ^oldarned stingy I don't get to see a cent 
of it. (aloud.) not for any one's smartness as hasn't the 
chink. When my dad turns angel won't I cut a swath! Al^ 
Bill Gray will have to do '11 be to name her, and it won't 
make no difference who she is, neither. 

Eld. (Aside.) If ignorant vanity were dollars, thcit 
fellow would be a millionaire. (Aloud.) Mr. Gray, excuse 
my interruption. You spoke quite freely of Miss Lavier— 
are you pretty well acquainted with her? 

Will. Witli Gorene? Well, you're whistlin' right I am! 
She's one of our crowd; though her ways ain't what they 
was before she went to that boardin' school and took to 
readin' classics, as she calls them novels. Then her name 
was Cory ; now it's Corene. Then it was Bill Grav ; now it's 
Mister everybody. Then we played with diamonds and 
spades and clubs— turned trumps and tuck tricks; now its 
them cards with big men's heads for spots, and they don't 
take tricks, but call 'em books. 

Eld. The fashionable game of Authors— a very inter- 
esting pastime. 

Will. It's no game at all. You're just guessing whose 
got the other cards, and no scientifics about it. Loretto 
and Corene, and sometimes her dad and old Phil Samson, 
plays. But I'd rather turn trumps. It may be all right for 
them as can read the names under the picters. but it's no fun 
for me to look on. But I don't care. (Shakes head tvith 
self-satisfied air.) My dad's rich and I don't have to waste 
my time learnin' new fangled things as hain't got no sense 
in 'em. 

Eld. I presume one endowed with Corene's accom- 
plishments, combined with a rich parentage, would not lack 
for admirers. 

Will. That she don't. But there's no one stayin' up with 

(2) 



Iier in particular,— unless its I'lul Samson, and he's more'n 
forty. 

Eld. Rather severe in years for one of Miss Lavier's 
age. 

Will. 0, age and looks don't make no difference with 
people as read classics. Besides, he's rich as a Jew. 

Eld. {Aside.) Rich! and admires Corenel (Aloud.) If 
this gentleman of whom you speak is so rich and admires 
Miss Lavier, strange I never heard Iier mention him. 

Will. O, no! Corene says least about them she's think- 
ing most of. I don't reckon she talks about me a very great 
smart, and she likes me better'n a cat likes cream. 

Eld. Well, no; 1 never heard her speak of you to any 
alarming extent. But I should think Loretto was more to 
jour liking. (Gets to table and gently fingers bouquet or turns 
leaves of book.) 

Will. Her and me run togetlier, and I like her a darned 
sight: but gosh! she's poor! My dad says, "Bill, love cemes 
natur'l, but money don't. You look out for the cash, and 
nature '11 furnish the other thing!" 1 tell you, wlien Bill 
Oray marries it 'ill be for riches. 

Eld. It is probable then, I suppose, as Miss Layier 
tills that particular bill of fare, you are here to pay respects 
to her. 

Will. That's what. She's going to read one of them sto- 
ries to me. I promised to bring Luretto over, but slipfc by 
withbut It. I like to know wh.it brought you around. (I. of 
e. down facing Elden.) 

Eld. I can assure you it was not to hear stories. How- 
over, it is no secret. I came on a private errand. 
(Enter Loretto r.) 

Lor. Bill Gray! you're mean as fennel, so you are! 
you can't play that on me, old feller. Every time you sneak 
over CO see Corene, and I find it out, I'm going to follow and 
see how you do i^. (Sees Elden. Looks at him in rustic fa- 
miliarity, going nearly to him and lapping hands in front 
down on dress.) Pickles-and-sass! Wliat brought you here? 
(Takes both his hands arid looks roguish.) I bet you 
darsn't tell. 

Eld. My little wild-rose, it isn't necessary. But I may 
as well. First, it was not to see her. 

Lor. Nowh! No fibbing, (Doubtingly). 

Eld. Truly, it was on private business with Senior 

(3) 



Lavier. When through I was intending to make Miss 
McFa a call. You have met rae half-way, you see. 

Lor. [Qitea Mh hands a sudden pull down; Ms one 
go as if to lead him rifjht of.) Was you, though? Well, 
come right along and I'll trot back this blessed minute. 

Will. {Down aside.) She's showin' the white feather to 
that ar' dewd; dog on it! I'd like to— I'll just be mean, too 
{Turns C. ; to attract) Ahem I ahem ! I wonder where's Cory ? 
It's her I come to see. 

LoK. {Lets go Elden and goes to Gray.) Bill Gray, 
you're Sim peri n-JT what we all know and what nobody 
cares, so now ! {Turns to Elden.) Haven't any of you boys 
seen her? 

Eld. ^She has not been here smce I came. If you 
will excuse me, I will take leave. Miss McFa. 1 will call 
some future time. The business I have will keep, and 1 
will not trespass on otiier engatreraents. 

Lor. {Oets facing Elden.) Don't be so familiar. 
My name's Loretto, and not Miss! — ain't it, Bill? 

Will. I don't care what it is, so I don't I 

Lor. {Ooe.i tormentingly to (inxy .) Yes you do! Now 
Billy — William — Mr. Gray, you can't pout when you try. 
{Teasing.) Can you, Billy ? You're jealous — that's what's 
the matter with you. 

Will. No I ain't! My dad's rich, and Corene don't care 
for nobody as hain't got cash. 

Lor. Yam, yam, yam! My dad's rich! Who said 
he wasn't? And who said you was jealous of her? (Elden 
gets to r.— Loretto intercepts) No you don't. Mister! It's 
no trespass unless you pass ray tresses. {Holding her haP' 
across exit) 

Eld. I beg pardon Miss— Loretto. I— I will be going 
now. {Takes her gently by the arm to get by.) 

Lor. Not much ! you shan't move a peg. 

Will. (J*ide fo Loretto.) Let him go, if he wants to; 
let him go! 

LoR. All risht. Bill says I must. Say "Tip, top, toe, let 
me go." {Detains Elden.) 

Eld. Why, to be sure. Tip, top, toe. 

LoR. That's it; werceed. {He attempts.) Nicks cum arousi 
sav the balance. {Gets between Elden and exit.) 

Eld. O, yes; I had forgotten the other— Lo-ret-to. 

LoR. Hunkeydory! (Elen passes out; she looks after.) 
Ain't you going to sav good-bye? 

(4) 



Eld. {Quickly re-enters.) Most certainly, Miss— Loretto» 
and Mr. Gray — good-bye. (Borvs and passes out.) 

Lor. (Steps back and crosses hands mischievously.) Say 
you've forgotten something else I 

Eld. {Quickly re-enters) To be sure. I fear my etiquette 
has failed me. {Comes down; aside.) Tax the saucy waif; I 
won't take that dare. (Takes her hands and attempts to kiss 
her, but she avoids.) 

Lor. Now, you would like to, wouldn't you. 

Will. (Z'o Loretto as/rfe.) Well, you just as good ai* 
axed him to. 

Lor. {Presenting hands) 1 only wanted to shake 
hands before you left. 

Eld. I intended pleasing you by doing that {shaJces) 
and myself by doing this.) Steals kiss and exit.) 

Lor. {Smacks lips.) Nyum! that was good! (M;rm/5 
hands) Goodness! Goodness! Bill! hesquoze my hand. 

Will. Well, you wanted him to. Them boardin' school 
chaps are miglity fresh if you'll let 'em. 

Lor. Hoakeys! I don't care! {turns carelessly). I'd 
let him do it again. I do believe. Bill, his hand is charged; 
It went clean through me {suppressed and serious). 

Will. 8o'11 mine! so'll any boy's hand a girl's {earnest)' 

Lor. I don't believe you. Bill! let's try it; shake! {gath- 
ering his hand with a slap; shakes; lets go with a 
grimace). Goodness, Bill! 

Will. Didn't you feel it? 

Lor. I guess I did! but it wasn't anything like his'n 
Why, Bill, your hand's as cold as a snake. 

Enter Colonel Lavier, h 

Col. Well, Loi y, I suppose you came over to beat me a 
game of Authors. You didn't bring Mr. Samson along? 
{aside) and I'm glad of it. I would rather Cora would adopt 
a respectable St. Bernard. (*Sfee.9 W^ill Gray ;^ goes quickly 
to him.) Ah! this is William! I am always glad to see any 
ot my friend Gray's family. I— I hope if you overheard 
my remark about Mr. Samson you will not take it in candor 

Will. It don't make no difference! my dad's rich, and 
so's old Samp., and them as has cash has friends. 

Col. {Aside.) Quite true! To win in the race, we must 
lake by the hand and fawn those who, were fortune re- 
versed, would have to deliver their messages with a pair of 
health tongs. {Aloud.) Won't you both be seated ? Cora is, I 

(5^ 



expect, delving in some written grotto, or scaling the print- 
ed crest of sotce romantic peak. She will be in soon, and be 
delighted to see you— especially you — Mr. Gray. 

Lor. {Aside.) Heh! Especially Mr. Gray 1 I guess it's 
because his dad's rich ; and nobody's glad to see me. {Aloud 
to Colonel.) Bill '11 be delighted to see her. He's been 
taking on worse than a man with the cramps for the last 
hour. 

Col. Who was that gentleman who left just before I 
came in? 

Lor. That! {As if surprised that he did not know.) 

Will. O, he's that spellin'-book chap as Corene met dow n 
at the boardin' school. 

Lor. He's higher grade than a speller—he's a Webster un- 
abridged. And the nicest!— I tell you, he's a dandy. 

Will. You'd better ka-nip over that boodle-bag. {To 
LoRETTO, suppressed reproach) 

Col. It must have been Mr. Elden Wild. 

Lor. That^s the feller. 

Col. I regret very much Cora was not in. Will he return ? 

Lor. O, yes, he wanted to see you and will be back this 
evening. {Aside careless) ile didn't say he wouldn't. 

Will. And he's brassy enongh to take off his duds and 
stay all summer, if you'll feed 'im. 

Col. {Aside.) I do wish that girl would ever be around 
when she's wanted. {Aloud.) Won't you be sealed? I'll go 
see where Cora is. 

Lor. You needn't on my account, I ain't going to wait any 
longer. Bill may if he wants to. (r.) Tell Corene I'll be 
back this evening, may be she'll be done classicaa by that 
time. {Exit r.) 

Will. {Aisde.) She's in a big stew to be goin'. She wants 
to overtake that ar' dewd and try his 'lectrics agin, {aloud.) 
Well, ColoneJ, I guess 1 won't stop neither, (n) Tell Cory 
when the rest git here, Bill Gray will be close on to 'em. 
{Exit I.) 

Col. Solos. One of the nerve-twisting features of so- 
ciety is the hypocritic greeting we are forced to bestow on 
wealth, else many a seeming welcome would be reversed. 
{Walks thoughtfully and stops I.) Elden Wild, though with 
out a vast income, would make a worthy suitor for any 
hand. Cora seems spell-bound with that fossilized Philip 
Samson, or rather with his reputed hordes. Poor girl ; she 

(6) 



seeius not to realize that a husband should be something more 
than a repository of furnishing material. I believe the gold- 
en bars removed, she would mighty quick choose Elden, 
What shall I say to the young man? Ah! She is coming. 

(Enter Corene, c. d. up, leisurely with book.) 
Ah! Cora, my child, you have disappointed a goodly compa- 
ny by your long absense. 

Cor. I thank you, it is about time I was being called 
something besides a child! And my name's not Cora, either! 
I think it's a sin for parents to curse their children with such 
sickening names! I now write it Corene! And! want you to 
call me that hereafter—or not name me at all. 

Col. Very well; it's hard to give up my child and the 
name by which I have known her so long. However, I will 
please you ; and from now it is Miss Corene. 

Cor. (Drops languid in chair at table.) Well, you'd 
better snivel over it. Nobody said anything about Miss 
Corene? (Change.) I thought you said there had been com- 
pany here; of course you'd forget to mention who if I didn't 
get down and beg to know. 

Col. Loretto 

Cor. That's enough! (interrupting) and you call her good 
company! Instead of encouraging my association with that 
rude thing you ought rather to forbid my speaking to her; 
she scarcely utters a word without slang. I fairly despise 
such ill-bred tom-boys. 

Col. I was not aware; you always seemed to enjoy her 
company when with her. 

<3oR. O well, I don't like to mis-treat any one. But why 
should I care as to my associations, if you don't. 

Col. If you will permit me, I was going to say further 
that Mr. Gray, junior, was also here. 

Cor. Mr. Gray! and you didn't take the trouble to in- 
form me. I should liked so much to have seen him— he is 
such a jolly mischief. I suppose if the Prince of Wales 
should come, you'd dismiss him without calling me. 

Col. a jolly mischief, indeed! in young Gray; but in 
poor Loretto it is rude ignorance. True, she is somewhat 
commonplace ; but compared with that brazen imbecility of 
a Gray, Loretto is civil and refined. 

Cor. (Laughs.) He must draw his manner largely from 
your brazen imbecility commonplace. (Lauuhs.) O well, 
there's a difference between a street-trollop whose only pos- 

(7) 



session consists in the bold effrontery to jest with queens, 
and a gentleman whose peculiarities are frescoed with 
National bills. Mr. Gray tan afford indifference to soriety 
custoras. But she hasn't a glittering cent with wiiich to 
garnish her rudacity. 

Col. (Aside.) Indeed! gold is a grand cosmetic; it japans 
the wrinkles of age. and converts ignorance into a cunning 
grace. (Aloud.) Well, well, let us call it a draw. Besides 
Loretto and Mr. Gray, your excellent friend and school 
chum, Mr. Elden Wild, was also here, but left before 1 got 
sight of him. 

Cor. (Laughs.) Elden Wild! my pxcellent friend and my 
school chum: (Zow.^/j*) where in Goschen did you pick up 
that soul-thrilling phrase, "my school chum?" (Latighs.) 
Why,! don't suppose that gentleman has a second suit to 
Ills back! and yet von would have received him as my 
chum I (laughs scornfully) yum ! yum I 

Col. It is possible he doesn't carry a tailor shop In his 
valise; and my judgment for it, he doesn't carry an unpaid 
tailor's bill in his pocket. If he has but one coat, that be- 
comes him well. Besides, Corene, he is worthy, intelligent, 
and maintains a high sense of honor. 

Cor. I do declare! how sentimental! I suppose if this 
■well disposed young man, with a high sense of honor and rt 
single suit, should ask my hand, you'd bow in meek humility 
and give me over to the mythical "love in a woodshed," and 
permit gentlemen of means to consult the Lamentations. 

Col. "Why not, Corene— that is, if you really liked the gen- 
tleman ? Mind, I am not discouraging your regard for any 
worthy person of means, however the disparagement of age. 

Cor. "The gentleman'' is good! I look next to hear you 
address the check-aproned miss of the dining room as a 
••lady!" (Scornfully.) To think! if I liked the gentleman I 
Such is the high regard you have for the welfare of youi 
child that you would let me batter my head against a stone 
wall, if I didn't know any better. (Gets to ottoman, up I.) 
Children are not supposed to know their own interests; and 
it should be the duty of parents to at least see that they 
didn't jump into a well. (Drops languidly on ottoman) 0! 
you make rae tired ! (Opens book.) 

Col. Well, read another chapter, and perhaps it will rest 
you. 

(8> 



Cor. {Throws hook down.) If it hurts you so I'll put the 
book in the stove. I'd rather never see one than have you 
continually yowing and find'ng fault. 

Col. It is you who cotitinually finds fault. Grown too 
vain to be called my child. Even the name I gave you is 
hateful. Accuse me with being cross— with indifference, 
and not caring for you. Why should I not care for you and 
feel an interest in your welfare? You are my all in the 
world to love ; {kisses her, which she coaly permits.) Corene. 
\ou are still my child! If I am cross I do not wish to be. 

Cor. {Gets up.) You are, all the same; I don't see how 
you could be much worse I 

CoL. You will some day realize that I could have been 
worse, tsuppose, instead of indulging your playful fancies, 
1 should proscribe your companionship ; say this one shall 
be your associate, and that one shall not; chide each care- 
less act and correct for each idle word. 

Cor. It would be better tor me if you did, and I would 
think more of you for it. 

Col. Instead of bending kindly to your wishes, I should 
assume a rigid censorship over your every move or desire; 
Aye! over your very thoughts. Like the cruel parent in the 
book you have just read, deny your right to think for your- 
self; ciicumscnbe your love; rob you of self-control, and 
suitject you to a chastening surveillance; say this man you 
shall renounce, that you shall revere, whether he pleases you 
or not, and perhaps force a union with some ill-gam suitor. 
Cor. If the suitor had money, I'd consider you did but a 
parent's duty. Inexperienced school girls are not competent 
to choose a safe destiny, any way. 

Col. Suppose on the one side stood a young man of re- 
finement, intellect, and a wealth of manly qualities— one 
whom you loved! while on the other stood some weasen 
soul without a single grace or complement, save a show of 
involuntary gold and a miser's greed for more— one whose 
coarse, dull manner you could scarce endure. Should you 
prove contumacious, seize you, and witli cold determination, 
send vou to some dingy cloister to be subdued to a relentless 
purpose by the horrors of walled imprisonment. Aye! to 
further carry the plot on some feigned crime, drive the ob- 
ject of your love to the gallows. Hold you in such dread 
discipline that sheer cruelty brings you to humiliating sub- 
jection! Yes, Corene, you would then realize the difference 
between what you now imagine is severity, and the real 
thing. 

C9) 



Cor. Indeed! How romantic! Why not write a book 
with Philip Samson for the villainous suitor of miserd 
fame, Corene Liavier as the empaled victim of dingy walls, 
and gentleman- Wild tor the hangman's toy. I would rel- 
ish some such experience as a change! I haye no doubt Mr. 
Samson would echo the relish, while ge7itleman- Wild would 
enjoy relief from the embarrassments of the fickle world. 
It would at least be an improvement on your monotonous 
indifference. 

Col. You may think so at an apparent safe distance, but 
should such an experience ever come home to you 

Cor. If you would suit your action to your vainly ex- 
pressed interest in my wellfare. (Yawns.) O, well, let's sus- 
pend the charms ! You make me sick as well as tired. (At 
table seats, carlessly leaf book.) Did you say Mr. Gray would 
be back? 

Col. Yes; he and Loretto will both return this even- 
ing. I did not learn whether Mr. Wild 

Cor. Never mind about Mr, Wild! 1 thought you was 
going to send the driver around with the phaeton to take 
me a ride— well, no, 1 didn't think you was ; but I remember 
you promised to. 

Col. The horses have been in waiting; but you have been 
out. 

Cor. Of course, lay it on to me! Haven't I been here lis- 
t ening to your fault-finding long enough to have ridden 
across a county and back. 

(Enter Ganz Schoenheit, Z. u. e. Stops in en- 
trance. Puts hand under coat tail. Looks at 
Corene. Corene to Ganz.) 

Well, what are you standing there for ? Where's the buggy ? 
(Ganz comes I. c.) 

Ganz. (To Corene.) Veil, I told you when you keep 
quiet long enough. Dem buggy vash in der road by dem 
bosses, when vou vash ready. 

Col. You see, Corene, to wish is to realize. I hope a 
brief ride may cheer you up. 

Cor. (Looks viciously at Colonel.) What the mischief 
are you driving at now ? I think its you who needs to be 
cheered, or something to drum a little civility into you 
(commanding to Gjlnz.) Ganz! just leave the cart in the 

<10) 



road till the tires rot, if you want to. Who told you to 
hitch up, anyway ? 1 don't want to ride,now. {Goes to otto- 
man and sinks languidly on it.) I'd rather take a sleep, if 
you'll just keep out so I can ! {lies on ottoman). 

Ganz. {Comes down I. aside.) Himmels! dot shildren! 

Col. Corene, I guess you have been worried quite enough. 
We will step out and give you a chance to take your sleep, 
and reflect on the cruelty of a cross old father. 

Cor. (Raises up, and with contemptuous gesture.) For 
pity's sake, do {lays). 

Curtain. 



ACT II. 
Scene l. — Room in Col. Lamei''s Residence. Plain table I. c. 
Chairs back of table. Door centre and one up r. It is same 
room as first, except more sparcely and more plainly fur- 
nished. Everything of a dingy appearance, and weird, at 
will. After curtain rises Loeetto enters room up r. 
Saunters carelessly down stage to I. c. 

Lor. Ah, hem! It's awfully awful to love a feller when 
you don't want to, and can't help ii; and when it don't do 
no good, either. If only Elden was rich, and as good looking 
as smart, and as everything else as he is, I'd trot him over 
to the parson's. {Sigh.) Somehow I feel a queer ticlfle 
about my palpitation every time he comes near me. I've a 
cruel mind to shut my eyes and let hirn ask me the very first 
time I see him. What if he should? Goodness! Good- 
ness! I do believe I'd wilt. Wouldn't it be a juke on the 
very elegant satin-lined Corene! 

{Enter ELDENr.) 
Goodness! goodness! there's that tickle. {Stepping back and 
talking aside.) 

Eld. Ah ! Loretto; you seem to be mistress here! 

Lor. Oh! Let me catch breath! {Hand to side. Mook 
affection. 

Eld. What's the worry ment? 

Lor. I — I — I'm plum done up; you took me so when I 
wasn't looking for it. 

Eld. I am sorry if I caused any serious fright— my 
bonnie cheat. 

Lor. Look to me, Elden ! {faces Elden, sharply.) Is that 
(11) 



narae you call me a new ridicule, or only one of your class- 
ical bv-name.sV 

Eld. Did you ever know me to ridicule? Certainly not 
one I so highly esteem as I do Miss McFa. 

Lor. (Reprovinuly.) I thought I told you net to be so 
familiar. My name's plain Loretto, and no Miss about it. 

Eld, Then it was my tnisVdke. Very well ! But you 
can't hinder if I miss you when you're not present. {Chang- 
ing subject.) I— I— suppose Corene is buried in the classics? 

Lor. Noh ! We got through, and she's gone out to find a 
bouquet. When I'm around you bet there's too much old 
Nick for classics {shaking her head roguishly). 

Eld. Indeed, I almost envy you the good times with 
Corene— she's a dear, sweet girl, isn't she? 

Lor. Well— yes I {A vein of jealousy.) She's better look- 
ing than Loretto! Fine wear makes any one look dear and 
sweet. {Picking at dress, as though she was a bit jealous.) 

Eld. Tut, tut! I only meant to compliment her for your 
benefit. 

Lor. a second-hand compliment. {Sarcastic courtesy.) 

Eld. I see plainly what's in your mind. To start with, 
you imagine — no matter what. Loretto ! all there is ot 
Elden Wild — my only complement— is whatever ability 
there is in me, whatever manhood or honorable purpose. 
Between Miss Lavier and the commoner lies a mountain of 
one, which I could nos hope to scale. {Discouraginqly.) 

Lor. Yes, but wouldn't you like to? {Puts finger to 
mouth and looks askance out of corner of one eye.) 

Eld. The recess of conscience may hide a secret will. 
Yet wisdom warns us to shun the false elysium, where the 
fruits we pluck at be airy forms that recede at our advances, 
{Takes Loretto's hand, and in a more satisfied tone.) How- 
ever, I confess it would afford me great pleasure to share 
your pass-times with Corene. 

Lor. If she knew you was here, I expect she'd be m at a 
hop. {Letting go Elden and turning up.) If you'll go with 
me I'll show you where she's treed. Come right along. 
{Getting to c. d.) 

Eld. I will join you presently. {Turns dovm.) 

Lor. O. K. But you mustn't forget it. I'll tell Corene, 
and 1 know she'll be on her tips to see vou. Bill Gray is 
out there; so you see there will be even numbers. Now 

(12) 



don't fool us. We'll see who ean find the nicest roses for 
the nicest feller. (Eaxit Lorretto, with rustic bow c. d.) 

Eld (solus). I half way suspect Loretto thinks something 
of me. True, she is not so handsome as Corene, and her 
manner is somewhat out of time; besides, like Elden Wild, 
she inherits the sin of being poor. Yet, one might go far 
and do worse. As for Corene, what grounds have I for hope? 
The mo] e I think of her, the higher rises that jetted cliff. 
I believe she loves me; and yet my doubts are clothed with 
fears that give them shapeiy realities. O, Corene! That we 
had never met! Or, that our first had been the last! Every 
thought of her but adds a faggot to the flame that consumes 
me. 
(Enter Ganz. C. d. Stops, and with hands undercoat-tail.) 

Ganz. Ganz Schoenheit ist my nahme; unt I werk fon 
der sthal by dem banker! Was hatten sie! (Pause.) Ver- 
stehe sie Deutsche? (Coming c.) 

Eld. My friend ; does it grow on trees, or in the ground ? 

Ganz. (Aside.) Er verstehe mich necht. (Aloud.) Veil, 
younk man (tapping palm of left hand with right index 
Jinger); I told you what I do! (Takes Elden aside.) I 
choke em! (Loud in Elden' s ear ; tip-toeing.) 

Eld. (Aside.) TH accost in English. (Aloud,) Well, Mr. 
Goose.* 

Ganz. You think I was a geese? (Coming down and 
talking back over his shoulder.) Nine! 1 beest Deutsche 1 
(Goes to Elden, and again tappinghand with Jinger.) Younk 
man, you don't fool Ganz Schoenheit! You been liken dot 
gal by der banker— Corene! (Sideling and looking at Elden 
knowingly sideways.) 

Eld. I confess you know something, or guess well. 
But a banker would scarcely permit his daughter to return 
the regards of a poor fellow like me. 

Ganz. (Goes quickly to Elden.) Was ? Don't marry mit- 
out der monish ! I told you what I do. (Takes E. aside.) I 
choke er! 

Eld. I should certainly relish that process, myself. 

Ganz. (Takes Elden aside, confidential.) Say, now; I 
told you some more! I gif you my sister; unt she hat so 
grosgelt! ein, zwei— more ash fifty dollars. (Going r.) I 

[*The word ganz means goose.] 
(13) 



told Katrina dot same. {Again goes to Elden.) Unt she hat 
one leetle kinder, so olt. {Holding hand 2 feet up.) 

Eld. Then your sister is a rosy widow? 

Ganz. Avidder? {Comes down offended.) Nine! Kat- 
rina not been married! No! {"Nine" and "no" spoken long 
and with force, looking back over shoulder.) Dot kinder ist 
one — {shaking hands, trying to think) ah— ya — ya— vat you 
call im ? {Getting to c. d.) I told you when I come by 
der slaughter bouse where Katrina been workin. {Exit d.) 

Eld. {Solus.) I wonder if the stall master is an index to 
the master of the house? If so, from whom does the fair 
Corene inherit? {Comes down center.) This is the second 
attempt to brave a meeting with her father; but every time 
some intervention favors and I escape. How 1 dread it; yet 
why should I? He can but order me out — and I can go! 
The word "fail" should never be written with a willing 
hand. The ordeal must come; and Elden Wild must meet 
it. Ah! I have it! I promised Loretto I would join them 
in the garden. I will do so, and the fair Corene shall in her 
own way provide an introduction! {Exit Elden c. d.) 
{Enter Colonel Lavier. R. up.) 

Col. If it wasn't for the mothers, we might command a 
share of obedience from our children ! {Seats at table and 
buries face m hands a moment; then rises, striking fist on 
table.) Shucks! It all comes from sending her to that 
boarding school! Ever since her return it's been nothing 
hut" Elden Wild! Elden Wild!" till the very name rings 
in my ear a coutmual din worse than the jar of a cracked 
gong! {Paces to and fro, in vexed agitation,) Curse the 
young vagabond ! I have said it, and Corene shall accept 
Fhil. Samson! True, he's her senior; so much the better. 
His ripe experience will hold in balance her mazy will! 
Besides, he has the wherewith! 

{Enter Corene, up c.) 
Corene, you seem cheerful. I am pleased to see you so. It 
betokens resiguatmn to the decrees of promise! 

Cor. Why should I not be cheerful? Everything con- 
spires to that end. Loretto is going to stay awhile, and I 
anticipate a perfectly splendid time. 

Col. "A perfectly splendid time!" Did I lavish all my 
hard-earned stores to have you learn no more refined ex- 
pressions ? Corene, I must forbid your further companion- 

(14) 



sljip Witt tlrese witless rollcs, wliose daily lex'con is made 
of gigple and billy-goat mimics. (Corene laaghing.) Blow 
tiie.' What in sainis are you cackling about now ? 

('or. (LaufJis.) Why, bless my soulJ {Laughs.) It's 
♦enough to make a saint cry a laughing to hear you talk. 
{Laughs.) Blow me' and billy goat mimics, with a rollick- 
ing cackled {Laiasihs.} T must forbid your further compan- 
ionship with Shony and old iially Samp! (Laughs.) Did I 
iavisk all my hard-earned grammar to have you learn no 
more refined expressions? 

Col. (Aside^ The aggravating vixen! (Aloud.) You 
should cultivate the finer qualities in associations, and not 
t&eir coarser vulgarisms. 

Cor. How serious you talk! {Mock amaze.) I was going 
to tell you that Elden Wild 

Col. {Stops ears mid walks impetuously.) Elden Wild! Is 
that name to be eternally harped in my ear? {With force.) 
Suppress it, at once! Banish it to everlasting forgetful- 
ness! Never breathe that hateful sound in my presence 
again! {Assumes a Virions deter niination.) Corene! Time 
was when you deemed me severe! But, as storms long 
gathering break with fiercer fury, so with my pented temper. 
I at last appreciate a parent's duty. The name of that 
houseless, stripping Jay must cease to corrode on your lips! 
The irony and light Jest concerning Mr. Samson must at 
once give place to words of fitting honor to him whom I 
have nominated to claim you as his own. 

Cor. {Aside.) If wishing to show contrast between 
what he has been and what he might be, father plays it 
well. {Aloud, very respectfully.) Father, it is doubtless best 
I snould consider your wishes supreme; and I shall strivb 
to do so. But in this tragic bout, you assume that which 
you surely do not mean. {Aside ) Two can play at ruse. 
{Aloud, with mirthful sarcasm.) Why, to think of that 
crotchet old bellicose, infects with malaria! His breath 
smells like a sick chamber! His voice rattles like a corn 
shelter! His head is for all the world like a scorched cocoa- 
nut; and he walks like a comic manakin propelled by gal- 
vanism! There's such a commodity as too-too; and that 
old animated antiquation is one of them. {Exit Corene 
c. d., with a flounce.) 

Col. {Looks after and shakes finger.) There she goes to 
seek encouragement from a doting mother; and then renew 

(15) 



her erammon coterie f AIi f Ton spoiTed sci'on f {Menadngl'ff:^ 
I'll find a way to unwarp your false training! Corene; ray 
child! I mean your own good. Did I care lesa for you I 
would be more indifferent! 

{Enter Senior Gray. L ) 
Senior Gray, I am glad to see you. Be seated, please. {As- 
su7ning compomre and offer hiiP chair from behind table). 

Gray. Xo. (Lifts hat and shove» H on buck of head} ^ 
cackalate ii's no use to set. How's the old lady? AncJ 
how's Cory s»insp coinin' from the siuoinarv ? 

Col. O— well !— I guess everything's all right. 

Sen. G. {^U» or leans on earned' of table.) 1 suppose she 
learned lo be putty smart. My Will wanted to go— chat is 
—he did when she was tharl {With insin lating zoivJi.) But 
he's not hankerin arter goin any more! Will's putty peart. 
MS it is, and don't need any great sight of lurnen. He eau 
count; and that's better'n wastin tirae on sich things ez 
don't bring in anything. Will's a boy as'll get thiough. 
( With air of selfgatisfaetion.) 

Col. William isn't slow, by any cseans. We are always 
glad to have him with us. 

Sen. G. Yas; and Will likes to be at your house. Ef I'm 
any j^dge, he likes my old friend Lavier putty well I (In. 
>fi.nuating tvink. The7i ehanges subject.) Say, Lave., what is 
tliar to the story about that Wild dewd, I hear em talking 
of? Will don't take much stock in him ! 

Col. Oh! he's a rather well-disposed young man. But 
lie is too low in the financial balance to be in the way very 
much. 

Sen. G. There ought to be a way to shet vp these impe- 
dent pups as have nothing, and who strut about among 
decent folks as tlu>uo'h they hed pockets fu'l. 
(Enter Ganz 2 r. e.) 

Col. Well, have you attended to the horses? 

Ganz. Yah! Mem lierr; ich habt e^hon! 

Col. Did you hook them yet? 

Ganz. (Comes down, aside.) Hook dem bosses? (Jo Col., 
looking back over bjioulder.) Nine! (Aside.) I stheal der 
lager beer ton der zeller, und I drink 'im myself; but I don't 
hook no bosses! (Aloud.) No! 

Col. Ganz, I am in no humor for your humor. Go! 

Ganz. lishgone! (At^ i.e.) 

Sen. G. Say, Detchman ! 

(16) 



Ganz. [Turns, and with hands under coat-tail.) Ganz 
Schoenheit ist mein nahme! 

Sen. G. {To Col. L.) Lave, I wonder if old Detch haint 
got somethin? Say, Detchy; liow'r you fixed. 

Ganz. {Comes doion aside.) Fixed! Himmels! every time 
dot teller come by der bank, "How you vixed!" {Aloud.) 
Why don't you brought some vixed mit you sometimes? 
Dot's the vay I been vixe*'., oil man, I told you. {Going 
qui(M>! to Qray and shakinq flask, tauntingly. Gray tries 
to get it. Ganz avoids and goes r.) Nine! I drink ira my- 
selt ; uiit if he been gate I gif you some. {Brinks— grimace.) 
Vail! Necht gate! Well, I drink him some more. {Drinks. 
Hands to Co'onel, who drinks and hands to Gray. Gam, 
angry, comes down.) Himmels! I ish mat! I told you what 
I do! 1 choke him! {Seizes Gray and procures flask.) 
Col. Come, Ganz, snap them blacks for me. Go, at once! 
GainZ O. I schnap 'era! {Exit Ganz 2 r. e.) 
Sen. G. 1 allers hev fun with thai 'ar Detchman. {Putting 
leg ovtr one corner of table.) Ez I was about to say. Lave. 
Col. {Aside.) Lave! I suppose I must put up with this 
familiarity ! 
Sen. G. 1 cum to ax a favor of you. 
Col. {Seats at table.) With pleasure my friend. 
Sen. G. Ole Miss Julip's owin a month's rent, cumin due 
nex Sunday. I want a receipt to tender her so's she wont 
have no excuse not to pay. I allers do bizness in a bizness 
style. ( With a vain movement of the head.) Ez I aint much 
at mak'n em out, I want you to. (Colonel takes pen and 
icrites.) Don't put in any extras so's she'l have a holt. It 
can't come due on Sunday, and somebody's got to lose a day. 
Make it cum due Saturday. It may as well cum out on her 
as me. 

Col. Certainly. I have drawn it in full to Saturday. 
{Offeispen.) , s.. 

Sen. G. You sign' it/ I aint no writer. Xeither's none 
of my family. The old Oman could read and cipher a little; 
but she's spun, and knit, and sowed so much that she's got 
all out of the way of it. Will got so's he could read in the 
fust render putty well by spellin the longest words {talks as 
though he thought it smart); but one day he throwed down 
the book and swore it was too much trouble. "What's the 
use," says he, "when you can earn the money to hire it done 
easier than you can learn to do it." Will's a great boy to be 

(17) 



phylosophizen. That McFa gal does our writen to our con- 
nections, and reads the letters when we get em. 
Col. It is very kind in her. 

Sen. G. O she likes it and don't charge nothin. I tell 
you, them as has will find lots o' friends to help em in what 
they lack. But we don't ax her to do it tor nothin. Last 
'New Year's day, the old oman sent her mother a hull heap- 
in pan of hominy! Then mv Will goes places with her — 
and you know that's payin kindness for kindness. But» 
mind; Will don't think anything of her {apoloqetic); he just 
does it for accommodation. Loret and Will have a heap of 
fun. The old oman and me have it up and down about Will 
and Loret. She thinks he and her a even match ; but I think 
she'd make a better deal fer that ar dewd. They haint 
neither of them got nothing, and it wouldn't be spilin two 
families. I tell Will to aim his gun higher. (Colonel 
walks.) Well, I cackalate as how you may have bizness to 
do. Much obleeged for your favor. {Ex',t I.) 

Col. (soliis.) I do hope I'm through with favor seekers 
for a time. * * First impressions are impulses which 
dictate the safest actuations. If, instead of sending Corene 
to that boarding school, I had listened to tirst inclination 
and sent her to the convent— Ah! I'm to be victimized by 
some charity fiend next. I'll inform her that the board of 
charities convene over the way. (Sits hastily at table, and 
arranges papers as though extremely engaged.) 
{Enter Mrs. Vidette, I. Colonel gets up and appears 

overly pleased.) 
Ah! I am surprised and surely deliglited to see it is you. I 
—I feared another attacTi of the Grays. I am truly glad to 
see you. (Rubs hands with delight and gives her chair I. of 
table. He seats r. h. corner up at table.) 

Mrs. V, Yes, Yes! As I was declining in my hammock 
on the miaza I saw your daughter in the midst of a hillerous 
sportation with Loretto and two boys. One was William 
Gray and the other was— alack, that I should say it— Elden 
Wild ? {Simpers and waives head mournfully.) 
Col. Elden Wild ? {Agitated surprise.) 
Mrs. V. It surely was! I knew of your diversion for 
the young man, and felt it recumbent on me to warn you of 
his near reproach to your daughter. 

Col. I thank vou for the interest you manifest. Corene 
gives her mother a vast deal of worry, since returning from 
school. 

(18) 



Mrs. V. These dawgkters becorae quite refractory in the 
interim of paternal vigilance^ and are capable of compass- 
ing tlie fortitude of the most enduring spirits, when once 
enameled in theaaiaaing meshes of realistic love,' Colonel, 
I've experienced an iltcing ot the dereaving predicament, 
myself. I wili administer your daughter a friendly instiga- 
tion on her evil disposings. These things do a powerful 
sight of good. {Looking over spectacles, str a i(fht at Colonkl 
and emphmizinq the ''paw") 

Col. We have determined to pair Corene with Philip 
tjamsbn. 

Mrs, V. {Aside, in disafpointment.) Oh! Here's a releva* 
tionj I must — {Changes suddenly.) A capital match! A 
capital match! 

Col. It is true, he is dull, and lacks intellectual finish 

Mrs. V. {Aside) Hear the man! I will note these slan- 
ders and breathe them in Philip's ear. {Aloud.) Yes, but 
Philip is a gentleman of superior means. 

Col. Exactly; and before we had sealed the pledge. 
Corene seemed to overlook all else; but now she hisses 
vainest epithets, and puts in her time learning the art of 
a most galling disrespect. 

Mrs. V. (Sympathetic.) The onappreciative girl! I will 
see your daughter at Sabbath class, and apostrophise on her 
vfAy-ward-ness. (Rises and looks straight at Colonel.) 
Colonel, these things do npowerfal sight of good. 

Col. Experience teaches me that the arbitrary rod is the 
only cure for tilial disobedience. 

{Enter Ganz 2 r. e. Goes eartiestly to Colonel.) 

Ganz. I told you what I do! (Takes Colonel aside I.; 
in his ear, forcibly.) I choke em ! {Comes down I., crossing 
to c, passing near Mrs. V., wJio is down L Hands under 
coat-tail, looks fiercely wise.) 

Mrs. V. (Throws up hands in disgust.) Whew! Colonel! 
Some one's been drinking! (Turns I., shaking head.) It 
breaks on ray olfactttry narves like the aroma of a toperian 
rendesvoouz. 

Ganz. {Down r. Looks fui tive over left shoulder at Mrs. 
V.) She wants to get some vixed, like dot Gray filler. 
(Turns r. and drinks gwck.) 

Col. (Cornea c; confused apology.) I— I— beg pardon, 
Mrs. Vidette (sudden thought)— di. fellow came to ask chari- 
ties 

(19) 



Mrs. V. And of coarse yoii responded to the poor man 's 
needs. 

Col. {With inwlnntart/ tnirth.) Well, I imagine we did 
in this instance. You see he was so far in his cups he fell 
asleep and we robbed liim (with a digJH tragic gesture ; Mrs. 
Y. recoils zaitJi horrififd gurprifte) of a bottle of vile liquor. 
(Ganz eyeing Colonel toith interest.) 

Mrs. V. (Relitved.) O, law I 

Ganz. (Doivn. Aside) Der tivilE I don't like dot lyin 
business I 

Col. And Ganz (indicating to Ganz) broke the bottle. 
Ganz. (Hastily takes flank part tcay from side pocket, un- 
observed, to see if it i» broken. Then p7tt» it back, whistles 
astonishment.) Himraels! Dos ist ein grosser lyen! 

Col. (Ironical.) Ganz couldn't help it, of course — break- 
ing the bottle, I mean. 

Mrs. V. (Down I. Aside, with slow earnestness.) If it 
had only been the poor man's neck! {prone inced pooei). 

Ganz, {Aside, down, r.) Der zwi tivilsl (Whistles stir- 
prise.) Dos niachen so gross lyen! Istheal! I do all der 
mean dricks; unt I schvear mit der court I don't bought no 
viskey, when I was ein.zwi — more ash a gouple times ver 
kaufen! But I don't lie like dot! (Mrs. V. sidles slightly 
toward c. Observing Ganz in astonishment and half friL/ht. 
Ganz turns totvard her.) Say, olt gal! You been one of der 
dem temperance, eh? (Slight left-hand gesture.) Y''ou don't 
like dot schmeil, eh? (Advancing a step ti>ward her, with, 
right-hand gesture.) Veil, you sthick em in your schmellerl 
(Turns down r., contemjdiions.) 1 told you dot, now. {Comes 
quick down r., iinth threatening gesture. Aside.) I told you 
what I do. (Starts toward Mrs. V. Sfie goes he. Col. 
intercepts Ganz and taking hold of him.) Yell, I choke er! 

Mrs. Y. O, Colonel! 

Col. (Sharply.) Ganz! Stop this wanton levity ! (Ganz 
crouches down r.) Did you snap them blacks, as I directed? 
( With authoritative tone.) 

Ganz. (Sullen impertinence.) Nine! I told you dem 
hosses wouldn't drink ill 

C(iL. I said nothing about drinking. 

Ganz. ( With suppressed anger and tone of dispute) Der 
tivil! Didn't you told me about der schnaps? Ya! Unt 
ven I put dot schnaps to dem boss, he ust pull up dose nose 
like von leetle stheer ven he schmeil on der grounl. (Mrs. 

(20) 



V. sho^jked. Ganz turns down composed, aside.) 0, veil, I 
drink em myselef ! (Drinks, holding coat collar up as a screen 
from Col ) 

Col. {Takes Gathz aside. Pointed. Mns. Y. I., shocked.) 
Ganz, I want you to hitca the blacks to the phaeton. Do 
you understand thatf 

Gan/.. Ya! Ich verstehesie! 

Col. (Modified.) There is michief up, and I want you to 
hold yourself ready for a trip. 

Ganz. (Aside) Derdlvil! (Aloud.) Comes dot troubles 
rnit der kinder. 1 told you vhat I do— (takes Col. up, aside) 
I choke em! 

Col. T simply want you to do as I say ; and no more 
foolishness. (Commanding tone.) 

Ganz. Ya ! (Exit Ganz r. 2 e ) 

Col. Sits at table r end, to Mrs. V.) We have decided to 
send Corene to the convent; this explains these orders to 
Ganz. 

Mrs. v. (Seating I.) A capital plan! A capital plan 1 

Col. Corene is fond of society. The reverend tread of 
the abbess; the dole of solemn tedeums; and a lone com- 
panionship with cloister grates, will soon bring her to a 
sense of duty. A few years, if necessary, and she will be 
glad to esCfipe even to the embrace of rough, uncouth, but ■ 
rich old Samp. 

Mrs. V. (Aside, disapprovingly.) Oh! such uncompli- 
mentary delusions. Birds of message shall warble in Phil- 
lip's ear, the.■^e diatribical utterauces.' (Aloud.) If the 
serious rites of the monasteery don't play upon her sen- 
sibilities and invert the child to their irreverent heresees. 

CoL. That danger has been guarded against. I have ar- 
ranged for nominal or option conflnement. and for the ad- 
mission of such companions as I may direct. Ganz will 
be her daily escort. Brother Bonard will give her spiritual 
council (rising); and you, Mrs. Vidette, must visit her also. 

Mrs, V. (Rises, aside, thouqhtfid, pleased.) Brother 
Bonard! a hem! (to CoL ) a capital plan! a capital plan! I 
shall bewail myself of the blessed chance to diffuse counter 
inspiration over her pliable understanding. (L., very 
earnest.) Colonel, this will do a poz^erful sight of good. 
(Exit I.) 

Col. (c.) How kind, for one who is unconcerned, to thus 
warn a father. (Looking r.) I wonder if that fellow will 

(21) 



ever get the horses ready? {C, meditatioely .) This is a 
deperate resort. But serious eases require desperate reme- 
dies. ( Goes tip a step or so, with sudden fury. ) The infer- 
ual saap-dallion. (C, more moderate.) I grow impatient. 
{Enter GAiiz. Stops. Inside r-^ e.) 

Ganz. Mein herr! Ich habt die schwarzen pferde in dem 
wagen gespraunt. 

Col. {Dismissing him). Make them fast. 1 shall not be 
ready for a while. 

Ganz. Ya! Mein herr! ich well es than. (.Exit tip r.) 

Col. (-Paces in brief meditation, then.) I wil 1 go and shape 
matters; in the meanwhile, afford her a spell to tire of her 
ribald frolic, which for time to come shall be her last. 
(Exit up r.) 

(£^nier CORENE Z. Looks about '^lightly beivildered.) 

Cor. What? why! Fatlier is not here! What is all 
this? Am I walking, or do I walk in dreams? Is his anger 
and cruel words but seeming — or are they real? {Throws 
off the spell with forced laugh.) I must not shrink 
at the spectre of my own silly bodings. {Seats at end of 
tablet I.) 1 have surrendered young Gray and his c?ac?'5 
riches to Loretto, or anyone else that wants him, as for 
that matter. Old Samp and Samps— well; I turn him out 
to Mrs. Vidette; and I know he will do /^er a ;DOM;erful 
sight of good. (.Imitating- Rises and speahs rhetor- 
ically. '> Give me a crust in a hut with intelligence worthy 
my respect, rather than a gilded palace dulled with ignor- 
ance— say nothing of love. <<Hears Eld. I. Eastily 
goes r.f and looking off.) 

{Enter Elden I. Stops and listens.) 
O, Elden! {Looking off, as though she didn't know 
of his presence.) How lonesome without him! 1 do 
wish he would come in. There can be nothing to fear. I 
will introduce him to father in such a pleasing way. {Sigh.) 
O, dear! I do believe I am 

Eld. ( Goes c. Interrupts.) I hope you are, actually. 

Cor. {Turns as if surprised.) Why, Mr. Wild! Is 

this you? I— I hope you didn't 

Eld. (-With kindly humor.) Never mind! I did 

though! {Goes to her.) Don't deceive yourself, Miss 

Lavier— you are not deceiving me. (-They com^e down o 

Cor. Deceiving you I {Surprised at his remark.) 

Mr. Wild, I'm sure, why should I? 

(22) 



Eld. {Plasfiil ■ ) Fra sine, bow could you? 

Cor. {Lightly) O, well! I did know jou was here 
{looks at Eld. ivith cunning assuran'je); but I meant it. 

Eld. (Dubiotcs,) Now, I am not tso sure but you are de- 
ceiviui? me. However, I will not accuse you. (Earnest\ 
Coreiie, I know tliB wall tliat separates one so fair— so en- 
dowed witli graces, acqnirt^d and of nature— from one so 
unfortunate in tlie possession of neillier. But, Corene, I 
have a favor to ask. If you cannot grant It — will you 
promise no ofEence, if I name it? 

Cor. If proper — of course, you are — I— I— will certainly 
take no offence (ns.'iuriiig),-dnd if within ray power llie favor 
shall be mine to give. 

Eld. {Slowly) It is within your power! (Tiirns sligJitly 
aside, lialf despondent, yet talking to her.) And yet it is one 
for which I dare not hope! (Tunis gaickly, as if to receive 
her hands.) Conne, I love you! 

Cor. (Slight reproacfi.) Mr. Wild! (Recovers) I thought 
you was going to ask a favor (bland), and not grant one. 
(In dvertently takes Ms hand, lovingly.) Elden! (Sudden 
release.) 

Eld. Tlie granting is tte mannerof asking. (Heassumes 
lo Joal mannrs.) Actions appeal to the siglit, as hands on 
the clock's dial pointing to the iiour. By your actions, 
Corene, I read some return for mv unworthy passion. (Takes 
her hands and looks in her -faa ■impressicely.) You are too 
pure to trifle or dissemble. ( With warmth.) Tell me, then, 
in confi lining words, that you do love me! And what rec- 
ompense can I offer meet for such condescen-ion toward 
one so beneath the worth of it? (Pressing her hands affto- 
tionately.) Corene! 

Cor. (Slightly away, yet not releasing his hands) Mr. 
Wild! I — 1 — E'den! (Assumes composure.) I would be un- 
true to myself— to yoti! — if T affected a love 1 no longer 
cherish. (Drops tone somewhat sadlu) 

Eld. (Involuntarily lets go her hands.) No longer cher- 
ish*,' (Steps affectionately beside her, with one arm gently 
around her.) Corene, why should you toy meV If you knew 
the deptii and fervor of mv love, I know it would meet some 
response. (Takes hei hands and pie ids elogiiently) Retract 
the false avow, and say you love me, if it be but to forever 
dismiss me from >our roof (ivith a slight degree of sadn.ess), 
which 1 know is too grand to long shelter one so lowly 

(23) 



{Pleadinglrf.) But one assrrranee, CoreTre, and the rerr 
word shall take the rose's shape, and bloom perpetual in the 
garden of meEDory. Oorenet {Draining her affectionately to 
him.) 

* Cor. (Hesitatinff.) ^'VeU.l— H^den I (tvithstidden affection') 
— I do love you I (Embi'ace ; Corene hears some one I. ; guickl]/ 
disenqage». Gets, I. c, cinfased. Eld. r. CoR., aside.) O, 
I— certainly t'athei would not be so rude as to insult one in 
his own house. 

(Enter Loreti o Z.) 

Col. (To Lor. relieved..) Oh, I was afraid it was father! 

LOK. What's the use being afraid of your own shadow? 
(Qets to table.) I'd smile to see my old pap open his pate 
about my feller, if I had one. (Rummaging among papers 
on table.) I wish my pap kept a l)ank-shop, and left things 
this way {pidUout draioer), wouldn't I spoop! 

CoR. (Suppressed alarm, qoe» to her.) For the life of you 
I.orettol if father would find you among his papers! 

Lor. (Shoving drawer in.) Who's afraid of your old dad ? 
I didn't know but I might find a bank check. (Coming 
I arelessly down.) What did you do with your feller? (Seen 
Eld. ?-.) Goodness! Goodness! {Makes doionioard gesture 
with hands, looking with roguish surprise.) 1 thought you 
and Bill had both vamoosed. I guess Corene's been trying to 
hide you. If you was mine, I'd band-box you, and put the 
lid on every time any one came about. {Nears him.) Wha*- 
\ ou standing back there for ? 

Elo. I was standing on invitation. 

Lor. Pooh! Aint you invited? .Just do like me — come 
in and make yourself at home. (Turns away with an air of 
don't-care independence.) That's the way I do, and if tliey 
•lon't like it, I don't care. It's the way I want folks to do 
at my house. Corene, I guess Elden wants you to wing him 
ill. (Takes CoR.'s arm and escorts her to Eld., wj^o takes 
< '< iR.'s arm ; Lor. releasing, goes up r. c. Eld. and Cor. go 
'■'^nter. Eld. to left.) 

{ E liter Pnii.. Samson r. Corene slightly coiif used, steps a 

pace r. c. Elden a pace down I. c. Samson, duking 

and glancing suspiciously around, goes near 

Corene, down and left of her.) 

Phil. Hey-dey ! Miss Co-rene (sarcastic), I shall endtever 
'<) lay up go-Id enough to meet all our immejate needcessi- 
I les. (Glancing insolently at Eld.) 



Cor. {Edges pace down l, so as to he nearly between Eld. 
and PniL.) Mr. Samson, 1 am at a loss 

Phil. I caekalate you be. (With derisive insinuation.) 
Ain't you flxen' to go into millinern, or some sich work. 

Cor. (Still puzzled.) You must have some riddle on 
your mind. I fail to understand your meaning I 

Phil. Jest as I sayed. Beant you goin' to milinern, 
with yon cliai) for a sign. (Indicating to Eld. with a 
coarse, contemptuous laugh ) 

Cor. (First betrays resentment, then composed.) Mr. 
Samson, this is Elden Wild— an esteemed friend of mine. 
(Eld., with suppressed contempt, bows.) 

Phil. (Very derisive.) He looks like a steamed clothes 
store. 1 guess he'd better husk them starchy garments 
and go a looking for a coal mine, or some other place to be 
airnen a livin'. (Contempt.) 

Cor. (Indignant.) Mr. Samson! 

Eld. (L., aside j with suppressed anger.) I dare 
noL assume here. (Aloud.) Miss Lavier— allow me to beg 

leave. And this gentleman (To FiWL. scornful) I regret 

sir, to be the subject of your profound wit. (Half aside.) 
I suppose, however, such pent-up abilities must find a field, 
or burst the feeble band— ^rai/t— that confines them. 

Cor. ( With persuasive embarrassment.) Excuse 
this mysterious license. Please, Mr. Wild, do not take of- 
fence. It is beyond my control. 

Eld. (Bitterly.) I do not hold you responsible— I would 
not be so ungenerous. But I appreciate your embarrass- 
ment. Forgive my intrusion. (Starts r. Cor. stops him.) 

Cor. No, No! Elden! You shall not carry with you 
this grievous slight. I— I— Elden! You must not leave 
under these circumstances. 

Lor. (Comes down.) What would you have him do?— 
Stand here and let that old stilt legs (points to Phil,, who 
betrays anger) make fun ot himV If it was /«y house 
(a step toward Phil., clenches teeth vengeful, Vhil,. cowers.) — 

Phil. (W ith assumptuov^ command.) Co-rene! 

Cor. (With resolution.) Mr. Samson! You shall not 
assume such liberties with guests of mine! There, s\v, is 
the door! ( With emphasis pointing to door.) 

( Enter Ganz / at entrance. Stops I.) 

Ganz. (With a quick hand -flourish.) Yal (Then going 
quickly and spiritedly near Phil., shaking finger 

(25) 



menacingly, indicating r.) Dot been der hole was 
dem wood-butcher gemacht! Unt if joii don't took em 
{comes down aside, a^tto^e*^)— Himmels! \ told you 
what I do! I choke liimi ^Mahes for Piiih.,ivho sJculks 
up I; where Ganz siezes him ) 

(■Enter Col. Lavier, up r. Ganz releases Phil. Elden I. 

CORENE r. c. LoRETTO r. COLONEL rests eye on 

Elden a moment, then—) 

Col. Corene! 

Cor. (-Confused.) Father, this is Mr. Elden Wild! (Eld- 
advances a pace c. Col. goes c. as if to accept the 
introduction; but when between Eld. and Cor.. 
faces latter, bach to Eld., with scorn.) 

Col. (Sternly.) Corene! Out of a fatherly interest in 
your welfare, I am compelled to dissipate this etiierism — 
this mythical dream of yours— and inteivent tlie lifjht mer- 
riment of these ill-become guests. (.Indicates to hon. r. and 
Eld. I.) 

Cor. (With recoil amaze.) Why, father! What has hap- 
pened? 

Col. Happened ? (Steps angrily up to left of COR. She re- 
coils and gets down r. Col. agitated.) Nothing hzs happened! 
It has been one coniinual, ceaseless happening! I have at 
last waked to a realiz:ition of my duty. The soft spirit of 
Indulgence wliich is gradually leading my cliild to an ill- 
begone fate, yields to the harder resort of my firmer purpose. 
Cor. (Imploring to Eld , xoho starts as if to leave r.) O, 
Elden! Stay! (Aside, emotion.) Merciful I^Ieaven ! Can this 
be real? Or is it the hallucination which some secret mal- 
ady fore-runs! (Covers face, dazed.) 

Eld. Miss Lavier! 

Cor. ( Qnickly takes hands from face and goes to Eld. piteous- 
ly.^ O, Elden! (Turns wildly up.) My friends! (Turns doicn.) 
Am I mad? (Qoes again to Eld, imploring piteously.) Do not 
leave me till this fearful cloud passes over, 

Eld. (Takes her hand.) If your word for it Corene, it is 
agreeable, I will see you again on some more pleasant oc- 
casion. (Lets go her hand as if to go. She takes hold of him con- 
vulsively ) 

Cor. No, no! Elden! You shall not go! You cannot be 
so cuel as to leave me now. (Turns beseechingly to Col. «jd.) 
Father! You cannot be serious! (To Lor.) Loretto! (To 
Eld.) Elden! Stay! and do not abandon me. (Goes piteous 

(26) 



lyto Col.) Father, in mercy lift this veil! drive away the. 
demon ot this horid vision! 

i:'Hii2 {Reaches hand pacifically .) Co-rene, 

CoL.\Warns him back, furious.) Sir! 

Ganz. I choke im ! (business.) 

Col. {With }7iUd firmness.) Corene! my child— it means 
that you must divorce yourself from these foible attach- 
ments. I have ordered the carriage in waiting. Ganz will 
be your escort. (Cold and inipre.^si.vp.) VVe have determined 
to send vou to the monastery ! (Corene shrinks a moment, as 
If obhviotis, then to Eld.) 

Cor Elden! This cannot be real. Father is certainly 
111 with some strange affection. 

Col. (Imperatively.) Corene! Bid this rude company a 
last good-bye; to your room and prepare! 

Lor. (Goes to Col. with saucy indignation.) Cheese 
your clatter, old man ; I guess I can find my way out at the 

same door I came in at. And you (to Eld., starts off with 

an independent flounce. Eld. also starts as if to go. 

Cor. (Intercepts with piteous appeal.) In mercy I be- 
seech you, do not leave me! 

Col. Corene! 

Cor. O, Elden! 

Eld. (Receives Corene, who falls affectionately into his 
arms.) Corene, is it your wish to go? 

Col. (Gathers Corene, shoving her r., and with the other 
hand shoves Eld. I. h.) Back, Sir ! 

Ganz. (Seizes Phil, who starts for Corene.) I choke 'im. 

Quick Curtain. 

Eld. down I. Lor. cloron r., in frigid. Col. left hand 

warding Eld., aiid right pointing commandingly up r. 

Cor. r. c, terror stricken. Phil. I.e., pretty tvell 

up. Ganz with Phil, by neck, he struggling. 



(27) 



Act III. 

Scene. Cloister Corridor somewhat dingy. Confine walls 

hack, and side I. Large folding or sliding door c, very 

heavy appearing, with large hasp for fastener, hut door not 

fastened — hasp hanging. Door up r. Boor I., just above 

1 e. Bench or rustic settee I. 

{Enter Ganz r., hackwai-d, warding.) 

Ganz. No you don't! No-you-don't! {C. looking r side- 
ways.) Nine.' 

(Enter Will Gray r., threatening.) 

Will. Now you go way, old Detcliman! I fetched this 
letter, and I'm going to see her, if I have to stand on your 
pesky frame to do it. {Edging up c.) 

Gakz. {Earnest, with gesture of right index finger.) Veil, 
now, younk man, you don't look at 'er! I told you dot! 

Will. {Edging toward door, I.) See here, old Detch, if 
jou don't let me be, I'll spill you all over this floor, so I will; 
— Dod rat your dirty picture. {Shies, watching Ganz close- 
ly. Talks and acts as though he didn't exactly know hut 
he woidd have to retreat.) 

Ganz. I was afraid of ?/oif.' Nine! {Contemptuous force. 
Comes down aside.) 1 told you what I do! {Going for Will.) 
I choke 'im ! {As Will eludes and shies r. Ganz stops l.,puts 
hands under coat tail and looks grotesgue.) 

Will. {R., whining.) Plague on you, old sauer kraut, my 
dad's rich; and if I don't cut you into fiddle strings, and 
then play old Pidy on the strings, it's 'cause I can't. {Exit r- 
guick, as Ganz turns threatening ) 

Ganz. {C, vigorous, looking off r., menacingly.) Veil, you 
don't speak mit 'er! I told you dot! {Glances sideways r. 
with forcible contempt.) Nine! {Takes pipe frompocket, 
knocks ashes out, looking mad. Seats I., filling pipe.) Dot 
Banker told me {gesture with pipe). Ganz, nobody thust 
sphoken to Corene, but der vidder, unt dera breacher fellers 
what sthay in der house. {Turns v., looking scornfully mad 
and smokes.) Dot leetle dog Gray don't look at 'er! {Sud- 
den impulse, gets up, looks front, shaking pipe as if about to 
say something. The pipe flies of the stem. He picks it up, 
mad.) Hiramels! {Puts pipe on stem, then dashes it madly 

(28) 



on floor, comes damn excited.) I told you what I do! I choke 
Mm! {Ooes up grotesquely with hands under coat glancing 
down sideways. Exit, door up r. 

{Enter Col. Lavier I., unlocking door.) 

Col. It is strange how soon within this inrtuence one 
immures the faith. A few brief months amoni^ tliese peo- 
ple seems sufficient to reverse a whole life's training. Kven 
Ganz has learned to con their rituals with as rtivereut com- 
punction as one born under the shadow of Rume. Brother 
Bonard, whom I obtained to hold Corene in balance, assays 
now to be cal led father! Mrs, Vidette bows to their im- 
ages and cuts a cross in the air at every salutation. (Looks 
up r.) Ah ! 

{Enter Bonard, door up r.) 

Brother Bonard! {Bo's ard salutes vnth sign of cross. 
Col. betrays dislike, aside.) My reverend friend, how fares 
my daughter; is she resigned to the situaiion? 

Bon. (r.) Unless her tongue betrays her heart. 

Col. You have of course been notified that you will soon 
be called to solemnize the union between Philip Samson 
and my daughter. I suppose she is quite ready for the 
event. 

Bon. She consents; but I fear she is not happy for the 
occasion. However, as I entered I met Ganz and 
directed him to escort her hence, that you may test her 
mood— as I expected you here. 

{Eater Ganz r. up, stop grotesquely.) 

Ganz. Ganz Schoenheit ist mein 

Col. {Impatient.) Well, well, I can imagine the rest. 
Where is Corene? 

Ganz, {r. c.) She wouldn't come out. 

Col. {Nears Ga'sz anxious.) Wouldn't come? 

Ganz. Ya! I told her, "Corene, your fatter been here 
unt speak mit you," 

Col. {After a pause.) Well, is that all — isn't she coming? 

Ganz. Nine! {Vexed.) She wouldn't come out; I told 
you ! {Repeats with energy.) I said : "Corene, your fatter— 

Col. {Interrupts.) Well, well, you have already told me 
what you said ; what did she say? 

Ganz. {Vexed) Veil, 1 told you all de time! She was 
mat when you was comin, and told me: "Ganz, I don't 
spheak mit dot fatter!" {Comes doiori aside.) Himmels! dot 
kinder! 

(29) 



Col. (Aside.) Still the same! (Aloud.) How is this, 
brother Bonard? I supposed Cortne in perfect assent with 
the arrangement; but it seems she retains that sullen will, 
and refuses to even speak with me. Go at once and coun- 
sel with her. Show the stubborn girl that it is her only es- 
cape from this solitude; that she must embrace the oppor- 
tunity quickly, if at all. Ascertain what hedges are in the 
way, that I may provide accordingly. (Exit Bon. r. up, sign 

of Cl'OSS.) 

Col. (Vexed.) See the mock blessings! I must suffer 
one of two calamities. Either she will go out to drudge for 
that young Nick— TFiZd/ (clenches teeth at word " Wild") or 
remain here in training to serve old Nick in eternity ! No ! 
neither of these calamities are necessary. It is settled! 
(To Ganz.) Ganz, bring Mrs. Vidette. (Ganz starts.) 
(Enter Mrs. V. up v., huge cross neck-chain.) 

Nevermind! She is here, (she salutes with sign of cross; 
sgueamish reverence; Ganz v., grotesguely ; Col. aside in 
disgust,) and mimics with that infernal air-cross. (To Mrs. 
Vidette.) Corene is still untractible. I have advanced 
my plans. The marriage must take place at once. 

Mrs. V. (Sudden astonishment. Comes down c. with hand 
on side, affected.) Oh ! I shall certainly aspire. 

Ganz. (Aside.) Der tivil! Going to marry dem feller 
mit der ^-o-ld. Der vidder don't like it— she wants dot fel- 
ler herself! 

Col. (rtj Mrs. Vidette.) I'ou must go and reason with her. 

Mrs. V. (Recovered.) I fear she is still reviling in the 
manacles of mortuary vice! I will see the poor girl, and 
buriush from her gilded slub-6t)r«-ness, the tin foil of the 
world's blinding emulations. (Up r., looks over spectacles.) 
Colonel Lavier, it will do a powerful sight of good. (Exit up 
r., with sign of cross. Col. betrays disgust.) 

Col. Ganz, come with me! to-nieht we shall have a wed- 
ding and a feast, and then leave forever this school of crosses 
and formulate dogmas. 

Ganz. (Waddles up to Col. toitJi grotesgue meekness.) 
Was! Soil ich diesen platz verlassen wo selbst die luft ein 
himlicher duftist? 

Col. Stop that jargon gibberish! Come! (c. aside at I.) 
I will send a post boy at once and notify Philip to be on 
time. Also Senior and Will Gray to share the festivities. 
(To Ganz.) Come! (Exit Coi.. I.) 

(30) 



Ganz. {At L, uihistles, astonish.) Der tivil ! {Ex. I.) 
{Enter Bon. and Cou. r., slowly talking.) 

Bon. My child, your manner and speech are at variance. 
I fear you are not content. (Bon. r.. Cor. I.) These sacred 
isles are hateful confines, and each lattice a prison bar. 
(Cor. seats I. and seems cUjected. Bon. .yoes- kindly to her.) 
Speak out, my child, if ought amiss; and as our Master is 
merciful, so shall mercy come to you. Are yuu not kindly 
treated by these people? 

Cor. {Subdued.) Their kindness to me is limited only 
by their power to bestow. I have no complaint to offer. 
{Sad and downcast:) 

Bon. Dissemble not with me. Tiiis place is too sacred 
for feigning. Here, sweet religion is heaven's matma, ad- 
ministered to only those who relibh it, that they may grow 
strong in the meek grace of earl> preparation. To those to 
whom this food distastes. He will in compassion withhold 
it. (Cor. looks up blankly.) My child, if these negations 
which only strive to atfirm are signs of the seal within, this 
veil {her veil) obscures the sunshine of His gracious promise, 
rather than leading you in the light. 

Cor. {First sadly, sloiv,b7it increases in earnestness.) Mr. 
Bonaid — Father Bonard! I am not profaning! As to you 
my manner seems is the true reflex of what \ feel! {Gets up, 
pleadingly.) Oh, sir! if it is yours to do me favor — in m,ercy, 
I pray. Once within these grim and hideous walls, is there 
no escape? Am I doomed in tills gloom to waste— here 
where every fond thought of the past is shrouded in the 
draping mantle of remorse which memory of a lost love 
winds about me— here where the only ray of light is 
the hope of death! {Sadly, half aside.) Contented? O, G^ocZ.' 
that I were! No! Every pleasant word, each cheerful 
look or act is forced through curbed resentment! {Anx- 
ious.) Can you not take me from this place? Is there no 
escape ? 

Bon. Escape! {^O'R.Eaqer.) Here! Faith is the guar- 
dian censor of loye. If her presence disturbs, the gentle 
shepherdess withdraws, and yields her guardianship. Es- 
cape! My child! {Tone of surprise, at which Cor. turns in 
despair.) Why ask you that? The plight of faith leads you 
yet to-day to the altar of love and liberty. 

Cor. {With despairing energy.) Cease! cease! to mock 
my misery! In your mystery I read the alternative which 

(31) 



seals me to this fate! In the spirit of that mercy I bade you 
tell, I emplore, forbear! {vmil, aside.) Come thou medi- 
ate death! In thy merciful embrace claim me to that si- 
lence where my soul mCSdttf at least be free! {Sinks on seat 
I., covering face with lianas in deep emotion.) 

UoN. My child, vour speech is born of a hasty wish, I 
will leave you to serious reflection. Peace, my child! and 
may newer light reveal to you a newer glory: the brigiilness 
of which your veil but softens, that so intense it blinds you 
not! Peace! and may pure thoughts and a purpose to meet 
your solemn vows, bring you rest. {Exit r. u.) 

Cor. {Rises and going c, sadly.) O, Elden! when you 
abandoned your Corene. hope took wings. 

{Enter Will., v., Cor. shrinks hack; alarm.) 

Why, Mr. Gray! ?/owr presence surprises me! How came 
you here; how eluded the watch? 

Will. I didn't 'lude 'im ; he played that clioke game, but 
I slipped away, and am here on turf again. {Aside with as- 
surance.) ThatDetcliman haint no business to fool around 
me any more. (T^o Cor.) I fetc.\\ed th\s letter {Jiands letter). 

Cor. a letter! {Takes it quickly and clasping it raptur- 
ously.) A spark at last to illumine this heap of mouldering 
embers ! {Nervously opens and reads letter to herself, seem- 
ingly affected.) 

Will. [Aside.) May be! There's most always some 
spark in them kind of 'velopes. 

Cor. {Confused delight.) Thank you, Will— Mr. Gray! 
O, I thank you so sincerely! It was brave and kind in you. 

Will. I don't know what it says — I didn't read it. Cory 
— pon honor, I didn'i! {Aside.) I guess I didn't {aloud), 
but I would like to heir it. 

Cor. {Careless and as if pleased to do so.) O, there's 
nothing in it I would be so ungrateful as not to read you. 
{Reads.) "Miss Corene Lavier, (hesitates with momentary 
emotion, biting lips,) it is needless to inform you the diffi- 
culty I've had in gaining permission to see you. {Brief 
emotion— wipes away tear. Will wipes nose ?vith top of 
sleeve, and rubs tears out of his eyps with finger.) However, 
if by return, it is agreeable, I will see you to-morrow p. m. 
I do not know into whose hands this may fall, {turns slight- 
ly aside to hide emotion,) hence you must tax your own con- 
science as to what more I would say, did not prudence dic- 

(32) 



tate brevity." {Kisses letter and clasps it fervently between 
hands.) Oh, Elden ! 

Will. {Aside.) Dog on it, if I'd a know'd it was from 
that are dew'd I wouldn't a fetched it. {Aloud.) Cory, me 
and Lorets' been hearin' stories as how you and old Samp 
wasgoin' to git married, and then youd'go way from here! 

Cor. O, Mr. Gray ! {evasive); there is — nothing of it— not 
now. {Aside ecstatic.) No I Thank God for the sun's prom- 
ise! The clouds break! Tne storm's liarsh sound grows 
soft! The haunting spectre of that hideous form vanishes! 
TJie dread dream of life's exile dispels to waking hopes! 
{Hurried, but meditatively.) To-morrow p.m. {Looks at letter.) 
That was yesterday! To-day p. m.! {Hurriedly to Wil,!..) 
Mr. Gray, will you remain here 'till I can prepare an an- 
swer? It will be some time, as I must take precaution. 
{Looks around as though she feared being overheard.) I don't 
like to ask so much, and yet it will be so kind of you. {Get- 
ting up r.) 

Will, It ain't nothin'. I'd wait a hull day for you. 
{Exit Cor., r. door, locking it. Will turns down r.) If 
that old Detch don't play another choke 'em trick— dog on 
his spotted hide! {Works his head with rustic bravado.) 
Bill Gray hain't no coward ; and if I don't pin his old ribs to 
one of these puncheons with this knite! {exhibits long knife) 
and leave the blade fast; then its cause he won't let me— 

Ganz. {Outside I., calling) Corene! 

Will. Dog on it, there he is, now. {Cowers and half 
conceals in winq r.) 

Ganz. {As fie enters 1, calling) Corenel Corene! Say— 
you gal! (c, sees Will) was; dot Gray feller. You make dem 
sthrings for some fiddle,— eh? Veil now, you don't look at 
'er, I told you dot. {approaches, shaking finger threatening.) 

Will. {Edges left, eluding.) I just want you to keep 
way from me, old Detch. {Talks whiningly, half daring 
and half timerou^s.) 

Ganz. (r.) Iwasafrait! {Looks over I. sJtoulder at W I'll 
disdainfully.) Nine! {Down aside.) I told you what 1 do! 
I choke 'im ! {making a grotesque ru^h for Will, who backs 
or slides up, eluding.) 

Will, ^ow, go way from here. {Gets r., eluding Ganz 
who is after him) My dad's rich, and— {Just here Ganz 
presses him. He falls back in wing r., but not concealed. 
Makes a thrust at Ganz ; but as he does so, Ganz draws him- 

(33) 



self way up, the knife passing between his legs. Ganz wheels 
suddenly and strides rapidly to door I. Will overtakes him. 
Gasz faces, and as Will makes thrust, this time higher up, 
Gakz pulls himself down by spreading at the knees, at same 
time taking himself by crotch of pants; so that knife passes 
over shoulder. Waddles rapdly in this grotesque position to 
I. u. e., when Will again overtakes him. Ganz straightens 
himself up, and as Will thrusts, draws himself up. Knife 
passes through coat at side, or in crotch. Ganz throws up 
hands, with) : 

Ganz, Himmels! Er hat mich in des bauchgeschnitten! 
Katrina! Katnna! Es ist um geschehen! (Turns and falls 
with a thud 071 face, in wing out of sight— knife sticking in. 
Will stands a brief moment in daze, then comes down, par- 
tially out of breath, reproaching himself.) 

Will. Bill Gray, you're a blasted fool. Youv'e done 
something tliat'U stay done. (Almost erying with alarm.) 
What shall I do? Dog on the old Detch bugger; I wish I'd 
a never seed 'im! (With bravado.) My dad's rich. (Cour- 
age drops.) But I guess I'd better not be catched here! 
Cory '11 hev to send that letter by next mail. (Exit r.) 
(Enter Elden r. after pause.) 
Eld. (Looking about.) Strange room for a prison. It 
looks more like a reception place to some public institution. 
This must be her air-chamber — that is, where they permit 
her to exercise and take fresh air. If I had known the 
room was of such easy access, I would never have waited 
on the will of prelates. It must be a place of common re- 
sort, as I am sure I saw some one breaking, though rather 
hastily, from here just as I came up. (Goes I.) I was too 
impatient to await reply to my letter, if she ever got it; and 
I am now equally impatient to learn the extent of my wel- 
come. I'll still misgivings bv making myself familiar with 
the premises. (Tries door I., which opens readily. Closes it.) 
Not locked! (Goes to door up r., finds it locked.) Ah! lock- 
ed! It's the first secrecy I've experienced thus far! (Goes 
up left, sees Gx^z.) Ah! the secret of no secrecy! The 
guard asleep on picket! (Looks.) That German. (Looks.) 
What! still as death! (Draws back alarmed.) A crime has 
been committed! (Quickly takes up dagger.) Who has done 
this deed? (Excited.) A murder] (Steps c. and is fright- 
ened.) This solves the mystery of no guard; and also of 

(34) 



the mysterious retreat of the person I saw leaving here! 

What shall I do ? If caught here might I not be suspected ? 

I will arouse some one! I will give the aZarm/ murder I 

{Enter Bon. hastily up r., unlocking door.) 

Bon. Sir! what is this you say? How came you here? 
Where's the guard ? (Bon. is astonished and speaks with 
hasty force.) 

Eld. {Going I. u. quickly and points to Ganz.) See ! a 
murder! 

Bon. {Goes up I. and looks amaze, then confronts Eld 
fiercely.) Fie'sdI And with that dagger! {Points at dagger , 
Eld. staggers r. c. and lets dagger fall, bewildered.) 
{Enter Col. I., haste.) 

Bon. {To Col. excited.) Seize this man ! He is a mur- 
derer ! 

Col. {Rushes toward Eld., but draws back as he sees who 
it is.) Elden Wild!! 

Eld. {Springs dexterously and gathers dagger and re- 
treats a step down r.) I am no murderer, but I shall not be 
responsible for what maj/ happen! {They press him. He 
falls back r. and brandishes dagger.) Stand off! I say; till 
I can explain ! {Retreats edgeways a few feet up r.) 

Bon. {Assumes composure.) You shall do that to tlie 
courts, but not here. 

Eld. {Gesture flourish with dagger.) Before Heaven, I 
am innocent! 

Col. Seize the wretch! 

Bon. Yes, seize him ! But who ? 

{Enter Senior Gray r.) 

Sen. Hello, Lave! This is a purtt,y crowd for a specta- 
ble wedden! {Refers to Eld.) You must hev done like the 
Bible and gone out into the big road and hedge-fence cor- 
ners for company. {Coarse laugh.) 

Col. Senior Gray, a foul murder has been committed ! 

Sen. Well, that does smell weddenish. {Goes to Col. 
with Jocular familiarity.) Say, Laye; it'll take more'n one 
fowl to fill my knap-sack alone {pats belly); besides, my 
Will, that McFa gal, and a hull lot o' folks '11 be here. Sup- 
pose you let the dewd come over as ornaments, or to make 
fun for us guests. {Looks at Eld. with an illiterate smile of 
disdain, and then winks at Bon.) Where's Datch ? 

Bon. {Senous.) My friend, I know you not; but this is 

(36) 



too serious for jest. The faithful watchman, Ganz, has been 
foully dealt with. 

Sen. Been pay in' him with his own silver. {Vacant grin.) 
Choke 'em ! Been wringing (goes through motion) his neck 
for a fowl! ha, ha, ha! 

Col. (Goes to him earnest.) Senior Gray, there Is no 
jest in this; Ganz has been murdered! {Pointing trag- 
ically at dagger in Eld.'s hand.) Help us seize that 
man! {Goes tragically as if to take hold of Eld., who 
falls hack and brandishes dagger. Sen. also advances, but 
both cower back as Elden draws back to make a pass 
with dagger.) 

Eld. {With furious defiance.) I could defy a regiment 
of such cowards. 

Sen. {Eyes Eld. suspiciously, taking Col. aside.) I say, 
Lave, is there any spondulix in this? Let's capter 'the 
whelp and hide him fer a reward ! (Eld. is now calm. Sen. 
bristles up to him, eyeing him and being careful not to get too 
close.) Put up that knife, sir! {Impatiently to Col..) Lave, 
take that ar beastly knife away from him and I'll make 
short work of it. 

Eld. {Steps guickly c, CoL. cowers back, and Sen. retreats 
hastily to left, throwing Col . between he and Eld. Bon. I. c. 
Eld. hands dagger, handle first, to Bon.) I trust my in- 
nocence with you for vindication. 

Bon. {Takes Eld.'s arm going r.) You shall have full 
justice! 

Sen. {As Bon, and Eld. near r.) I'm not af eerd to capter the 
desprado! {Seizes Eld. by shoulder from behind with pom- 
pous bravado.) You're my meat! You cowardly pup. 
{Looks back at CoL. and still holding his grip on Eld.'s 
shoulder.) Y''ou see, Lave, I'm the fust to lay hands on him. 
{as theyeccit r.) Go hev the reward offered. {Exit Bon. and 
Eld. in arm. Sen. gripping Eld.'s shoidder. Col. paces 
excited and confused a moment, then becomes possessed.) 

Col. a scene I little expected; and it increases the puz- 
zle. Shall I make this known to my daughter; or await de- 
velopments? A strange thought forces over me! Can this 
be the result of some fell plot for her escape ? Why came 
he here? And how? The last question finds answer in 
this sad scene. Ko, no! It cannot be! Away suspicion 
that my daughter {draws himself up with dignified pride) 

(36) 



W^l«1%«gg^'rf'%Vif^em^^6'iAfamous! (Looks up r.) Ah! 

Mrs. Vidette. 
-iCi) ' '• " 

(Enter Mrs. V. r. u., with sign of cross.) 

Col. (To Mrs. V., after a shudder of disgust.) Mrs. Vi- 
dette 

Mrs. Y. (Before he can proceed.) Colonel Lavier, I saw 
your daughter in the coriander, with— alack that I should 
say it— but I felt it mv duty to tell you— she had in her 
hand a bit of papah [—(Zoo/cs ot)e/-«;c»ectocZes) and a pen and 
ink. 

Col. Still crazed in the pestiferous literary meshes. 

Mrs. V. She was wendins: to the antic with epistleary 
motives — a lettah, Colonel ! a lettah ! (looking over specta- 
cles.) 

Col. (Aside.) A letter! Such liberties are dangerous! 
(Aloud.) Mrs. Vidette, to whom is this girl writing? There 
are reasons why I must know. (Hears Coreneup r., stops.) 

Cor. (Outside up r.) I am sorry to keep you so long. 

Col. (Aside.) Ah! she comes, and expects to find some 
one. Ah, ha! 

(Enter Corene r, u.) 

Cor. (As she enters.) Here! (Sees Col,., and stops in sur- 
prise.) Why! you frighten me with surprise! I— I (confus- 
ed) thought— it — was — Mr. Gray! (aside as if half regretting 
she had said it.) 1 will not deceive. 

Col. I regret the presence of a father should be occa- 
sion for surprise— especially when he comes announced. 
Corene, you were not expecting Mr. Gray here! 

Cor. Indeed, I was not expecting you here ; notwithstand- 
ing you were announced! 

Col. Ah, yes; I remember the word you sent me just 
now. But, Corene, a father claims the liberty of imperti- 
nence. I am here, even though you did send word you 
did not wish to see me. 

Cor. (Apologetic.) Father, I was occupied then, I— I (s'oes 
to him and takes his hand) I am glad to see you. Why 
should I deceive you? I swear it, not twenty minutes ago 
I left Mr. Gray here. 

Col. My daughter, it may have been some one in gray 
clothes; but you expected to meet (turns head and speaks 
vengeful) Elden Wild! 

Cor. (Lets go. Half aside in surprise.) Elden Wild! 

(37) 



(spirited) I tell you it was not him! Haven't you seen Mr. 
Gray? I am not falsifying. 

Col. (Turns head from her and speaJcs soft.) Yes ! (Di- 
rect inci'easing iii earnestness.) He just left here, in com- 
pany with Bonard {ind—Elden Wild! ! (with tragic jesture.) 

Cor. (As if thunderstruck; then.) No, no I Was Tie here ? 
(aside, suppressed joy.) O, Elden 

Col. This deception must end. I am not to be mocked at. 

Cor. (Assumes cool d'iterminatiou.) Neither am I. But 
you shall be wholly undeceived, I tell you, and stand on my 
honor for its truth, I expected to find William Gray at this 
place on my return. You admit he w^s here, and yet ques- 
tion my word. 

Col. I admitted no such thing. It was Senior Gray who 
left here but a moment since. 

CoK. (Aside.) There is some ruse or mystery here; what 
can it mean? (Aloud, sudden, boldly.) I was expecting in 
reply to this (exhibits letter), a call from Mr. Wild I (handing 
letter) here! HEAD] ! It is to him,; m answer to one frojn 
him. 

Col. (Takes letter, but does not read.) I will not read it. 
(Furious.) My eyes shall not rest on a line from one so 
vile. Take this Ititter I (hatids back in nervous agitation.) 

Keep it, if you like. Embalm it as a last (checks his anger 

sudden, and turns away) 

Mrs. V. (Qoes consolingly to Cor.) Yes, wrap it in a 
balm of Gilead as a last momentum of the poor young man. 
(At exit.) It will do •ApowQxtnX sight of good. (Exit.) 

Cor. (To Col., standing with decisive calmness,) Well, I 
am dwelling on your last, and wait with patience. 

Col. Corene! (sharply, then persuasive.) My child, will 
you listen a moment to reason V Once I was wiser than 
my parents— in my own estimation. How sadly I have re- 
alized the fallacy. (Takes Cok.'s hands. She grows at- 
tentive.) This experience overtakes us all. To think, 
should I give to your childish fancy its wont, instead of the 
bride of wealth, of honor, and the splendor of a rich home, 
you would yield yourself the faded slave of penury and 
want— and dishonor. 

Cor. (Bitterly, disengaging.) Do not say dishonor ! The 
breath of poverty may sweep over me; but do not mention 
Elden's fair name in connection with dishonor! (Col. 
turns aside to hide his anger at name of Eld.) 

(38) 



Col. {Energy.) What! Still defending a name which 
for humanity's sake should never been known? {Comes 
quickly down, aside.) I see! it is the only way! {Aloud.) Co- 
rene, rob the glossary of its power to express it, of the name 
of a murderer {tragic) may not beheld in dishonor. 

QoiK. {Shocked.) A murderer! {A moment as if paralyzed, 
then aside.) No, no! It cannot be! {Aggressive.) Retract 
the base slander, ov prove it! I shall forget that you are a 
father. Filial ties, nor yet the bands of humaaity shall 
hold me in check if this infamous slander is not proren. 

Col. {Quickly, aside.) The climax is here. She shall 
known the fearful truth! {Quickly to Cor.) My child, I 
had hoped you would spare me the pain of such proof! aye, 
of revealing to your young sight — unused to deeds so black 
— that which will make your blood chill! 

Cor. {Mingled fear and resentment.) For God's sake 
what fearful mystery is this? Are you wild? 

CoL. Me wild! {weird laugh) ha! ha! No, no! Not me— 
but Elden Wild! (CoR. startled; he takes her hand rashly.) 
Come! {Leads her to wing.) The proof! Sec, child! {Points 
hut turns down without looking.) The mangled form of 
poor Gan/. run through with i\\^t fiend's dagger! 

Cor. {Looks, draws hack with horror, shrieks as she does 
so; then goes in wing and looks again; then hack in amaze, 
looking ahout wildly.) Why, what monstrous thing is this? 
{To Col., in wild emotion.) Father, you are certainly mad ! 
{Hands over face as if to recover.) Or am I mad ? Where 
am I? {In wing.) Father, there is no one here! {Steps 
hack, looking at CoL., and pointing in wing.) No one there ! 
{Pauses, resting eyes on Col. bewilderingly.) In God's name, 
what mean you ? {Pause, then feeling walls, mystified.) Are 
these cold walls real ? or are they but canvas, throwing back 
strange forms on my poor brain? {Goes again, looks in 
wing.) Father, there is nothing herel 

Col. {Goes up abruptly and points in wing.) Se«! (Cor. 
goes up timid, hut shrinks hack. Col. looks, and then draws 
hack a moment, as if dumb.) What! {Looks again.) Gone! 
{Paces up and down.) Mysterious disappearance! This is 
some ghoul's work ! 

{Enter Bonard r., slightly agitated.) 
Col. {To Bonard.) Bonard, Can you solve this? (Bow. 
stops, questioning. CoR. nears him, eagerly. Col. continue'}.) 
Some one has spirited away the body of Ganz. {Takes 

(39) 



Bon. abruptly up, and pointing.) See! It is gone! (Bon. 
looks with surprise.) 

Bon. Strange incident! The inmates must have discov- 
ered the body and secretly removed it. (Loud jeers heard 
up. Coi.. and Bo^. stop i?i wonder. Cor. cowers.) 

Cor. (To Bon., urgent.) What fearful noise! (Jeers 
again. They again stop in wonder.) 

Bon. I will step out and see. (Exit I. u.) 

Col. Corene! (She goes pensively to him.) Becalm your- 
self. You are surely convinced. Let us leave this fearful 
place, and soon in the gratitude of escape you will forget 
these fearful scenes. Change this darkly veil for one of 
softer whiteness. Philip Samson 

Cor. (Impetuous defiance.) What! Leave here to think 
of him! No! Rather this labyrinth of despair; rather 
the veil of prisons, of death! than the broad world, decked 
in the whitened gossamer of false love. No! Here in this 
bastilel can at least wear my slave chains; and like silken 
chords they hang about compared with the icy touch of 
that hideous man ! (Jeers. Dumb astonishment.) 
(Enter Bon. I. u., somewhat abrupt. 

Cor. (Ootstohim.) Father Bonard! What fearful noise? 
(Jeers.) 

Bon. (Recovering calmness.) My child, look beyond the 
clouds for a silver hning! 

Cor. What new hope is this ? Have you come in answer 
to my fears— a taunting nemesis to mock my misery with 
false hopes? Or, witli mercy's omen, in answer to my 
prayers? Speak on! Mr. Bonard! (Turns half aside, de- 
spondent.) No.no! It is enough! (Looks blankly, first in 
CoL.'s face, then in BoN.'s) In every feature is written 
cruel indifference. 

Bon. My child (bell heard), that is a joyous bell pealing 
glad sanction of the holy rite which the recent fearful 
scene alone prevents. (Bell in another direction.) That is 
another bell, tolling a sad requiem for a soul condemned. 
Instead of a bridal veil of purest white, which should orna- 
ment this occasion, off yonder (points up) the black cap 
of despair drops and hides from curious gaze one 

Col. (Steps tip, and takes words out of Bon's mouth,as it 
vjtre.) One from whom you have escaped to revel in the 
pillows of pomp. (Jeers.) These discordant jeers are the 
just mock of the vigilants. (Tragic, to which Cor. shrinks, 

(40) 



buries face in hands a moment.) 

Cor. For God's sake spare me! Is this bitter dreg to be 
added to my cup? O God ! that my prison walls had been 
kind— they would have fallen and buried me! (Delirium.) 
Friends! Father! (First at one and then the other.) Where 
am I? Is there no friend to rescue me from this rabble? 
(Jeers.) Hark! The vigilants! (Rushes up, then back, from 
one to the other.) Go! save the innocent! 

Col. (Takes her hand rudely.) What! would you save a 
wretch who kills? 

Cor. (Jerks loose. Stares at Qo'L. a moment.) Save him? 
Yes! (Stamps foot in with vehement emphasis, at which 
Col. draws back.) And I will! (Rushes up and forces open 
c. door. As door opens, calcium lights reveal suspended effigy. 
Rabble in back ground, Jeering. Con. rushes and drops on 
knees at foot of scaffold. Clasps hands in despairing agony, 
rests eyes on effigy.) My God ! Too late ! too late ! 

Tableau. 

Bon. (L. c, hands racked across breast, head bowed. Col. 

r. tu7'ns down in sullen contempt. Slow, solemn 

music. Curtain de.<icends at "Too late." 



ACT IV. 

Scene, as in act II. Col. at table seated. Dress modified 
from act III. Cor. at table seated. Careworn. Summer 
fabic, but in contrast with act I. Mrs. V. seated I. Fan- 
tasy, at will. 

Col. The guests have been summoned, and the rites will 
soon end this foolish reverie. (Pause.) Your own consent 
has sealed it. 

Cor. (Aside.) Yes; my own consent; the guests have 
been summoned! (Aloud.) I know I gave consent. (Rises.) 
But think of the cruelty that forced me to it. There in 
youth's exile; banished from home; from the association of 
friends! Buried in a living tomb! Denied even the boon 
of God's free sunshine; proscribed as a menial or dangerous 
imbecile who knew not to guide its own feelings or dear- 
est wish, except under the impudent watch of a dogging 
guard. 

C41) 



Col. (Sternly.) Keserve your words, Corene, and put 
away that defiance. Hear me once lor all, the die is fully 
cast. That fate which speaks decrees unalterable bids you 
relinquish every other purpose, every other thought, every 
other hope. 

Cor. (Aside.) Can this be the voice of fate! (Aloud.) 
If you have a heart that is not of stone and calous to pater- 
nal sympathy, listen to the pleadings of helpless misery. 
(Goes to COL.) Father, if tears had power to soften, the very 
chains which so long lashed me to a stake of penitence 
would have dissolved like ether mists; the sullen walls of 
the prison would have melted and crumbled, and I could 
have walked free, without that cruel pledge. (Pleading.) 
If prayers avail, here on mv knees (kneels) speak from me 
these fetters which bind with a promise extorted through a 
torture worse than death ! 

Col. (Qeyitly assists her to rise.) Corene. have you not 
ere now watched the bulging clouds that fringe the lower 
circle assume all manner of shapes by the imagination 
wrought? I^ow springs up some awful form with demon 
aspect; then a furious beast, a cruel savage! So have you 
watched your home; by wanton imagination shaped my 
every move or word into something wrong. Caresses were 
cunning deceptions. Indulgences you called indifference. 
And thus at will each changing shadow which life's cares 
would throw across me you builded into an evil purpose. 
But I will not chide. By such you drive me to a sense of 
duty. I would be less than father if I permitted you to— 
jump into— a furnace. 

Mrs. V. Yes, Colonel, her home was a paradox on earth 
with an angel guarding the port-holes. (To Cor.) O, if you 
had only realized the enormity of your latitude! But you 
want content; like the foolish statue-maker who essayed to 
sit in the dome of altitude and breathe life into his own 
handiwork, and because he couldn't, cursed the author of 
his power's limit. The Infinite heard the irreverent prayer, 
dissolved her clayf ul ligaments, and from the whitened ped- 
al Galatea steped down, alive and beautiful. And Colonel, 
she proved a ponorama box from which sprang jealousy 
with green spectacles, and disturbed the equilibrum of the 
poor man's home, till he prayed with all the fever of his 
soul that she might again resume her tenement of marble 
statues, and she did. (Sighs sadly.) 

(42) 



Col. ( Who had betrayed novel interest.) Well, I never 
took you for a novelist. 

Mrs. V. Colonel Lavier, 1 was only repeating it advolor- 
em as Corene read it to me from the precious book, word 
for word! 

CoR. {Who has face buried in hands oblivious, looks 
up piteously .) I cannot think of it! I will not believe /lim 
guilty. 

{Enter Bon. c. d.) 

CoL. My child, I will remove this agonizing doubt. {To 
Bon.) Brother Bonard, 

Mrs. Y. Yes, if possible remove the terrible incumbas 
which hangs about like some fell pall bearer. 

Col. {Continues.) Brother Bonard! {Q,on. eager.) El- 
den Wild, (Cor. shrinJcs, but at once assumes stoic indif- 
ference,) you saw him bending over his victim, and from 
his trembling grasp fell the wreaking blade. {To Cor, who 
betrays momentary emotion.) Shall we proceed with this un- 
pleasant testimony? 

Cor. Yes ; In heaven's name I am prepared for whatever 
may unfold. 

Col. {To Bon.; Am I not right in what you saw ? 

BoN. You are. 

Col. You sei:ced the young man, Eldea. (Cor. shrinks 
but recovers.) 

Bon. I did! {Aside.) In effect, yes ! 

Col. And you shrieked in his blanched face, murderer!! 

Bon. Astonishing truth! 

Col. It was then that, wiLh staggering fear, he let go 
the wretched steel. 

Bon. How vivid the scene! 

Col. Ganz was on his face, having been run through? 

Bon. Exactly the position, and with this dagger! {Ex- 
hibits dagger.) 

Mrs. V. Oil! Colonel! and did you turn the poor man 
over to examine his lacerated anterior? 

Col. {Vexed.) Well, no! ('/'o Cor.) Does this reconcile, 
or shall we proceed farther with the trying details. Come, 
shall I bid in the 

Cor. {Quick emotion.) Spare me! For God's sake ; I can 
not endure this! {Turns aside in piteous despair.) O, Elden! 
{To Col.) Father, I am convinced; but why this haste? Can 

(43) 



we not wait a more composed time? I can not think of it 
now! (Aside,) O, Elden 

Col. (Rashly.) Corene; this useless grief is builded on a 
stubborn will, and nothing more! I will not permit so foul 
a name to disturb the pure air of this place again. (Mode- 
rated.) I should think the joy of your escape would blot 
out memory that you ever knew sorrow. (Fondly.) My 
daughter, you will some day realize whose wisdom was sure 
— the fickle dictates of girlish passion, or the deliberate 
sense of age's experience. (Pause.) It is time! Shall I bid 
in the guests? 

Cor. (Sinking resigned into seat.) Yes! (Ex. Col. s. 
Cor. buries face in hands and sobs. Bon. goes to her and 
cheers her.) 

Bon. Peace, my child! Come! Put on the maiden 
charm which is still yours, if you will but wear it. I will 
invest you with a new veil. (Hands her a light drape veil.) 

Cor. (Takes it.) Yea ; I take a second veil ; but it is of 
deeper dye! (G'oe«r. c.) Higher walls shall confine me! The 
satined appointments of home will wear a gloom more som- 
bre than the serest corridor. (Arranges veil over face.) 
(Enter Col. and Phil. Samson.) 

(Phil, goes r. of Cor. and takes her right hand with his 
left which she indi^erently permits. Mrs. Y. sinks despond- 
ently on ottoman. 

Col. Brother BonardI Let your high office fulfil; 
and at once join in hand these pure hearts prepared in 
heaven for earthly union. 

Mrs. V. (Rises and whisks in c. d. Indignant sarcasm.) 
It will do her a ipot^;erful sight of good. (Font Mrs. V.) 

Bon. (Position.) Is there any present who know cause 
why these two should not be joined in one? First, let the 
father speak! (Pause.) None! Now let whoso will speak! 
(Pau^e.) None! Brother Samson, do you take this woman 
whom you hold by the right hand (Coh. goes to Fniij. and 
indicates; Tie awkwardly lets go CoR.'s hand and fum- 
blingly grasps it with his right) to be your lawful and 
wedded wife, to love and cherish till death doth sever? 

Phil. (Looks to Col. who indicates. He then nods.) I 
do! (Again looks at Col. who indicates. He then kisses 
her hand which she indifferently permits.) 

Bon. Miss L,avier, do you take this man whom you hold 
by the right hand to be your lawful and wedded husband ; 



and do you promise to love, serve and obey him. till death 
doth sever ? 

Col. {Placing ring on Cor.'s finger.) My dearest 
daughter; may this ring prove emblematic of that perpet- 
ual union of hearts, in that it has no end; and of the 
purity of this sacred rite, in that it is without alloy. 
Bon. M ow, by the power vested, and by divine right as 

God's elect to declare these destinies 

{Enter LoR. c. d. abrupt, goes directly to Bon.) 
Lor. Holdup, Parson I (Shakes his arm.) It takes two 
to make a bargain! I saw through the key-hole, and this 
woman hasn't wiggled a sign since the farce began 1 

Cor. (Raises veil, gazes at Lor. a moment in surprise; 
then) Why, Loretto! (Let's go Phil., and kisses Lor. 
Noise up; bells, horse-fiddle, etc. Con. shrinks back in hor- 
ror.) "What fearful noise is that? 

(Enter Mrs. V. c. d., agitated.) 

Mrs. V. O, Colonel Lavier! They've heard of the wed" 
ding and have come to give us a chiver de freeze; with 
their coronets, their cymblins and bovincial bells. 

Lor. Let up, granny, (Mrs. V. shocked,) about clarionets 
and cow-bells. (Noise, Cor. gathers Lor., as for protection.) 

Phil. Hey deyl Miss Co-renel (Cor. shrinks from him. 
Again gathers Loretto and fondly kisses him. Phil. looJcs 
confused. Mrs. V. confused. Goes first as if to caress Bon. 
who draws back tenderly, then to Col., who goes down, 
indignant. She then snatches a kiss from Phil.) 

Phil. Hey-dey! (wipes his mouth)l sa^pposed my^-o-ld— 
(Mrs. V. gathers Phil, around neck, but lets go and goes 
doum. r. confused. Col. I. c, Cor. and Lor., l„ Phil. r. c.) 
(Enter Ganz, c. d. Whistles surprise.) 

Ganz. Dertivil! (Cor. c.) A lovia' match, eh? 

Col. (Coming down c, aside.) Do my eyes deceive me ? 

Bon. (C. steps back, I. c.) The dead alive I 

Phil. Hey deyl The ostler 1 

Cor. (Weird confuseineiit, comes c.) What! stranger yet! 
(around with wild inguiry.) In mercy, friends! What is 
this? What! Ami 

Ganz. Ya! Dos ist es. Beest zu oder beest zu nicht? 

Col. Ganz! You surprise us as the ghost of Banquo! 
How comes this? 

Bon. les; my trusty friend. We wait breathless the 



mystery ! {They gather eagerly around. He comes down c- 
Phil, skulks up. r.) 

Ganz. Veil, I told you myselef : I werks for dot banker; 
unt nobody must spoken to Corene but der vidder. (Looks 
toward Mrs. V.) Dot breacher man (Bon.) unt dem fel- 
lers what sthay in der house. Veil, comes dot feller mit 
a crooked belley (Phil.) unt told me. "I speak mit Corene.'' 
Nine! (drawing hack with haughty force). Dot fish hook 
feller told me, "I gif you go-Id I" Vel, I told him wie viel 
5'0-ld? unt he told me ein penny. (Insignificant.) Him- 
mels! I don't want no penny! You don't look at 'er. {Looks 
o« Phil.) Nine! "Heydey!" (Imitate.) "You no took 
dot penny ! Veil, I give you more." Veil. I took dot nickel. 
ButI don't let 'im look at 'er! I said I choke 'im! unt dot 
feller took himself off mighty gwick; unt I took dot nickel 
unt ein glass bier verkaufen. 

Col. Well, well, Ganz! Your death— your escape— or 
what else! 

Ganz. Veil, didn't I told you? Ya! Dot leetle Gray fel- 
ler was comin' unt I told him "You don't look at 'er!" unt 
I choke 'im! Veil, he vas comin' back— but I didn't choke 
'im ! (grotesgue earnest.) ' No ! 

Cor. Go on, Ganz ! solve this fearful dream ! 

Ganz. Veil, now. I told you all the time. Every blace I 
was turnin' dot leetle dog Gray was stickin' dot long— a-ya- 
ya— what you call 'im ? dot— messer (motions, trying to call 
it.) Himmels! I was mat! unt I pull me all down, dis vay, 
(pulls down seat of pants,) unt draws me up, dis yay, 
(draws himself up.) Veil, I run by der door, unt— vip! (mo. 
tions as if stabbing.) Himmels! dot— dot messer, went into 
der mittle. Mein Gott, dat tickles! But I didn't laugh! 
nine! 

Col. Well, Ganz— 

Ganz. Unt I fall on my belly mighty quick unt I lay 
mighty quiet. Dot feller says, "Ganz, you don't told no- 
body," unt I believe 'im; unt dot feller went out. 

Col. Why didn't you get up and seize the assailant? 
{Aside.) If this is true. But it can not be. Did we not 
apprehend the villain in the act? 

Ganz. Now, I told you I was too mat to be gettin' up, 
unt dot feller come back unt "What! Ganz is dead!" unt 
den he pull out dot — messer. " Who has done dis busi- 
ness?" Himmels! I vas mat. But I kept mighty sthill. 

(46) 



I was afraid he would stick dot— messer a leetle way up 
more; unt some fellers come unt catch dot man unt take 
him away, 

Col, And the man who was seized did the stabbing? 

Ganz. Ya! 

Col. (Aside.) Then it «;a«Elden Wild 1 

Ganz. Himmels! (Shudder.) Der blut was runuin' like 
some lager beer mit der bung out! (Shudder.) I felt aboud 
me unt dot was nicht blut! Mein Gott in himmels, I vash 
mat! But I don'c wait for some other fellers to come — I 
took myself away. (Down, aside.) Dunder unt blitz! Let 
me catch dot feller! 

Cor. Then there has been no murder! Thank heaven 
for this truth ! Elden is innocent ! 

Col. Ganz owes nothing to the villain, only the failure 
of his intention! (Discordant bells.) 

Cor. Listen! The vigilantes! Go! Ganz! Go at once 
and make jour safety known. Go! save the innocent! 

Ganz. Save dot feller? (Down indignant.) Xine! (Aside.) 
I told you what I do,— I choke 'im! (Starts up.) Let me 
catch dot feller! 

Cor. What! will no one rescue him ? (Bells.) I will save 
him ! (Dashes up, CoL. intercepts and detains her rashly.) 

Col. Are you mad ? Have you so soon forgotten ? He 
is long since past saving. It is too late! 

Cor. (With sudden resignation.) Yes! I remember. 
(With piteous emotion.) It is too late! too late! (Swoons 
and falls in Qo'l's arms.) 



Scene 2.— Street or walk. (Enter Phil, r.) 
Phil. Heydey! The vigilantes roped her millner block, 
but she be still puckered about him. I supposed my 
go-Id— (c.) 

(Enter Lor. r.) 
Lor. (Aiide.) Tar-and-taffy ! if there ain't old bandy! 
(flounces impudently up to him and looks him in the face. 
Then impudent courtesy.) 

Phil. I cackalate you be mighty fresh for one without 
much go-Id! 

Lor. (Saucily.) Chipper your gold, old cook-loo; I can 
get along without it. (I.) So can Corene. —{Exit I. 

(47) 



Pjiil. Hey dey! Weel. if slie can get along without my 
gold' — 

Enter Ganz r., haste. 

Ganz. Himmels! let me catch dot Gray feller. {Corner 
down.) I told you what I do. I choke 'im! (Starts I. but 
stops at seeing Phil.) It ish dot old fish-hook feller. (To 
Phil.) Veil old Hey dey ! (Gazes at him a moment gro' 
tesquely.) You don't fool Ganz Schoenheit. Uot gal don't 
spheak nciit you. I told you dot! 

Phil. I cackalate she be wantin' go-Id. 

Ganz. (Indignant.) Nine! 

Phil. And you be wantin' some. 

Ganz. (Quickly.) Ya, meinherr! (Going to him famil- 
iarly). Mein leiber freund! I told you what I do. (Takes 
him aside. Phil, hands him a penny. Ironically views the 
penny.) Veil, now! ein penny! (Goes down c. indignant.) 
Himmels! dot makes me mat! (Puts penny in pocket; 
changes humor.) O veil; I told you anyhow. I gif you 
my sister; unt I sthop mit you. Katrina hat so gros 
go-Id — ein, zwi, more as fltty dollar. (I) She got 'im by 
der sclilaughter house where she's been workin'. (Takes 
Phil down c, confidential.) Unt Katrina hat ein leetle 
kinder, so olt. (Indicating with his hand). 

Phil. Hey dey! a widder woraern! 

Ganz. A vidder? (I. inrlignant.) Nine! (Aside.) Him- 
mels! All the time I spheak bout dot childerns, "your sis- 
ter been a vidder!" Verfluct! (stamps in rage.) dot makes me 
mat! (Goes to Phil, and shakes finger at him.) Katrina 
don't got married! No! (Going I.) Slie make dot kinder 
mit out it! ( Exit I.) 

Phil (Sighs relief, goes I.) Hey dey! —[Exit I. 



Scene 3. — Same as in Act I. Corene on Ottoman asleep. EU' 
ter Elden c. d. Looks at Corene asleep. 

Elden. That is what I call perfection. See, she smiles! 
Some pleasing thought plays upon her mind. Who knows? 
She may be dreaming of the time when our lives shall merge 
in one perpetual round of joy. And yet who can tell but 
?ome other faces fill the ideal of her sleeping fancy ? Ah ! a 
shadow darkens the sunshine of her unconscious moments. 

(48) 



She frowns! It must be Loretto turned nymph, and comes 
in airy form like night nemesis to wliisper eyil. Sjme mis- 
chievous sprite giving scenic contrast between the sweets 
of happy reflection and the bitters of disappointment. 

(Enter Lor., r.) 
His-tl— Don't disturb lierl 

Lor. Tl»elazy thing 1 She's missed a bushel of fun by 
snoozmg. 

{Enter Will Gray, r.) 
Hasn't she, Bill ? 

Gray. Hasn't she what? 

Lor. Hasn't she what! Bill Gray, you're stupid as Cor- 
ene's feller. Excuse me, {to Eld,) 1 meant her other feller. 

Eld. You double rapidly, my little wild rose. First, that 
she has another feller, and a strong hint that I'm her feller. 

Lor. Well, ain't you? You act mighty like it; don't he. 
Bill? (Takes a bite of apple and hands Gray.) Have a 
bite? (To Gray.) 1 said we'd had a high-dandy time while 
Oorene had a nap. 

Gray. We'd had a better one if she'd a been awake. 

Lor. Heh! You'd better wake her up and have it over. 
I don't care! Give me back my apple! (Snatches apple.) 
You like me best, any how, don'c you? (I'o Eld.) 

Eld. Well,— I— I— if I should say. this gentleman over 
here might object. 

Lor. (J, no he won't! Say itif yon wan't to. Bill don't 
care— do you, Bill? 

Gray. (To Lor. aside.) You'd better make a tarnal 
dunce over that ar' dough fellow. You want him lo try 
his 'lectrics again. 

Lor. Cracky! It would just tickle me all over to have 
him! (To Eld.) Ain't you going to say something? 

Eld. Well, yes; you are better company. 

Lor. (Aside.) My ! um ! that goes all over me like a warm 
chill. (roELD.) I'm awful glad you said that. But you 
don't mean it, though! 

Eld. T surely do. 

Lor. Do you, now! Well, shake! (Takes his hand and 
shakes. Lets go andruns to Will G.) You don't know how 
good that felt. (Gray offers his hand.) No, don't touch me, 
Bill! You'll extract the charge! (Goes back to Eld.) 
Shake again— I like your shake. (They shake again.) Did 
you mean it? 

(49) 



Eld. Mean what? 

Lor. A-bout my being best company? 

Eld. Of course I did; why shouldn't I mean it. 

Lor. Goody— oh! say it again! 

Bill. (Aside.) Dog on that ar' dewd; I'd like to snuff 
his nose. 

Eld. Well, yes: that is, when you art awake and she's 
asleep. 

Lor. Heh! (Goe-i to Cor.) O. here; ain't you through? 
(Gives her a shake and steps back. CoR. feels of collar as 
if choking. LoR. goes and shakes her again.) Get up-p! 
and rub the brine out of your eyes. (Cor. raises up and 
looks wild and bewildered.) Goodness! Goodness! Catch 
her. Bill; she's going to spoon. ((Jray goes up.) Jso, you 
catch me and let her own feller catch her. 

Cor. Where am I? Father! Where— where am I? 

Lor. Tou're in jail! (d/mZin^o/i "jail".) 

Cor. (Rises fHghtened.) In jail? 

LoR. Yes, you're in that convent you was reading about 
and I'm one of the sisters, (mock impressiveness,) ain't I 
Bill ? (Takes a bite of apple.) 

Cor. (Still bewildered.) Ganz!— Go 

LoR. Now, who's Ganz ? The girl must be about to wink 

Cor. Bonard— Mrs. Vidette! 

LoR. Why, you simpleton! who ever heard of such 
names— Boneyard! Mrs. Vidette. Gracious to goodness, 
child, who are you talking about? 

CoR. Elden— Is he 

Lor. (Aside.) Slie's coming to, I do believe. He's some- 
body. (EL-OB'S goes to Cor.) 

Cor. O, I— I guess I've been dreaming. How long have 
I been asleep ? 

Eld. I don't know, I'm sure. You were asleep or some- 
where this morning when I was here. 

Cor. 0,1 remember, father said you had been in; and I 
was so disappointed. 

Lor. (Comes down.) I think I'd stay awake all the time 
if 1 took such jeeminy fits as that. Wouldn't you, Bill? 

Gray. I don't know. 

Lor. O, yes you do. 

Gray. And I don't care, either. 

Cor. Elden ! 

Lor. Bill! 

(60) 



Eld. Corene! 

Gkay. Loretto. 

Lor. Shoot the Loretto. Just call me Lory— something 
.you don't have to get on tip-toe to speak. And your name's 
Bill, and not Mr. Gray. 

Cob. How commonplace Loretto is. 

Eld. Well, rather, and yet there's a fascination about 
off-hand girls, after all. 

Cor. (Sigh.) May be there is, but I can't look at it that 
way. How would you like for me to call you Bill? 

Eld. O, I prefer that you would not call me that. How 
would it sound if I should call you Loretto— or Lory? 

Cor. Well, now ; I see your sly correction. I don't want 
you to call me Lory— i^or Loretto, as for that; but you may 
call me Cory, if you like. 

Eld. And you may for?et the Mr. and call me Elden if 
you like. 

Lor. Just hear them. Bill! Goodness! They've let go 
their handles and call each otlier by their first names, 
They'll be sparking next; instead of what you call it at 
boarding schools. Corene will be his girl, and he'll be her 
feller, just like common folks. Goodness! how quick they 
catch on to our rustics. 

Cor. Ah, Mr.— E'den. here comes father; maintain your- 
self and I'll give the prettiest introduction. 

Lor. Yes, keep a stiff upper lip and take your knock- 
down like a philosopher. 

Eld, Never fear for me, 

(Enter Col. Lavier, Z.) 

Cor. Father, this is Mr. 

Col. (Takes Bid's hand.) Never mind, my daughter I 

Cor. Why. father, Where's vour whiskers? (Aside.) Why, 
I can't realize,— I— I must have been dreaming. 

Col. Why so, my daughter? I don't miss any. By the 
way, Corene, I hope you wake from pleasant dreams, with 
less ill humor. While you slept your excellent friend and 
•nd school chum 

Cor. Hush-sh! Now, please don't bring that up. 

Col. Becalm! As I was about to say, while you slept, 
Mr. Wild and your cross old father met and he conquered. 
So, my children 

Lor. Let up on children. Col. You may call Cory and 

(51) 



her feller children ; but me and this chicken are too old to 
be called children any more— ain't we, Bill? {Punches 
Gray.) O, wake up, and don't stand around with jour 
thumb in your mouth that way. You'll be seeing Bone- 
yard's and Mrs. Vidette in the air, like Corene. 

Gray. I ain't got my thumb in my mouth. 

Col. As I was going to say. It is time for this farce to 
end. If Mr. Wild 

1.0R. Say, Colonel; you haven't tumbled to the new 
wrinkle — the modern \geea. 

Col. Of all the outlandish cutes, you get away with the 
bunch ! (Corene laughs.) 

Lor. What are you laughing at now ? 

Cor. It's your outlandish get away cutes. (Laughs.) 

Lor. Say, Corene, he wants you to careen your jaw 
and laugh in a smile. 

Col. Well, well, children— I will call you that. If Mr.— 
Elden, I mean— has fully made up bis mind which, I'll or- 
der a parson and prepare a feast. Come, Elden. (He steps 
beside Corene.) 

Lor. It's Hobkin's pick, (points to Corene,) and Eld. knows 
it — Don't he. Bill? As for me, I'm just like the good peo- 
ple before me. 

Col. How is that, you little slap-Jack? 

Lor. I'm not in the market — am I Bill? 

Gray. The old Dickens, you ain't. 

Lor. No. (Leans head on BilVs shoulder, carelessly.) I'm 
already sold— ain't I, Bill? 

Curtain. 



Col. Lamer. 



Elden and Corene. 

Loretto and Gray. 



ERRATA: 
No account made of typographical errors. However, 
please note: 
Page 15. "If father is wishing" should be rusing. 
Page 17. "It may as well come out 071 her" should be of. 
Page 22. "Am I walking" should be v)aking. 
Page 44. Col. should exit I. instead of s. 
Page 45. Cor. should fondly kiss her instead of him. 

(52) 



.yjRjJJY OF CONGRESS 

016 102 608 6 



